UNM women's basketball players said it has been a remarkably quiet week at practice because head coach Don Flanagan has been rendered virtually mute thanks to a sore throat and assistant coach Yvonne Sanchez was out on the recruiting trail. "It was kind of hard to understand coach (Flanagan), but coach (Dave) Shoemate and coach Shane (Flanagan) translated a little bit for us," Briody said.

Flanagan already has visited a doctor and is on the mend.

He might feel a little better after checking out the ticket sales for Saturday's game. UNM had sold 10,200 tickets as of late Wednesday afternoon. I couldn't snag a Thursday update, but the total already is a season high and surpasses the Texas total. You can check out a story I wrote in today's Tribune for more details about the moves UNM's marketing department is making to help boost attendance.

This also was supposed to be a painful week of early-morning free-throw shooting for the Lobos after a rough start from the line. But Briody said the Lobos' surge of strong free-throw shooting against Georgia Southern meant the players only had to show up for practice early and shoot 50 free throws instead of heading to the practice facility for extra shooting before sunrise. Let's just say Reggie Theus, who promised to make the Aggie men shoot at 3 a.m. after their road loss to UNM earlier this week, isn't the only coach with a mean streak when it comes to players missing from the charity stripe. "We got lucky," Briody said. "It could have been so much worse."

Check out Friday's Tribune for more women's basketball coverage.

Posted by ilimon at 06:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

The New Mexico Bowl unveiled its championship and most valuable player awards at a press conference today. The trophy is a clay pot designed by Marcellus and Elizabeth Medina, artists from the Zia Pueblo. Marcellus Medina, who painted the pots, said he had never draw football players before and it was a major challenge to get it right. But he said he was thrilled to be asked and is happy with the final product.

The trophies are definitely distinct and different than any other bowl award out there. They just need to keep them away from me because I am guaranteed to knock it over. I seriously was a little nervous being around the front table with the pottery all set up. At least I know my weaknesses.

I talked with UNM coach Rocky Long, who was at the press conference and he said his players all are doing well and no one has popped up with any new injuries since last week.

Posted by ilimon at 06:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Cody Kase, who many of his teammates refer to as the smartest guy on the UNM football team, earned was named second team academic all American by ESPN the Magazine. Kase, a starting linebacker and team captain, is the fifth player in school history to be named an academic all American and the first since Chad Smith earned the award in 1998. Kase is studying general management and his 4.01 GPA is the highest of all academic all American honorees.

Posted by ilimon at 06:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I talked with Katie Hnida tonight after her Larry King interview, and she said she enjoyed doing the show. It was her longest interview yet, spanning the second half hour of his show.

King did try to bait her a bit into naming or revealing details about the person who raped her, but Hnida tactfully dodged the questions.

While much of it rehashed what happened in Colorado and Hnida's reactions to it, she did get a decent chunk of time to promote her experiences at UNM.

I'll have a story in Wednesday's Tribune based on my interview with Hnida.She's pretty excited about speaking at Book Works on Rio Grande Wednesday night and the UNM bookstore Thursday.

Posted by ilimon at 10:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

San Jose State just accepted an invitation to the New Mexico Bowl this afternoon. I'll have a story posted on Lobo Zone soon with a few more details.

Posted by ilimon at 02:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It's just about time for me to turn in my Heisman Trophy ballot.

I'm pretty sure I'll vote for Ohio State quarterback Troy Smith, so the more exciting part is what I do with my second and third place vote on the ballot.

Do I go with running backs Darren McFadden, of Arkansas, and Steve Slaton, of West Virginia, or snub them because they're sophomores?

Does Notre Dame's Brady Quinn deserve to be in the top three?

Does BYU's John Beck deserve one of my votes? How about Colt Brennan from Hawaii or Ian Johnson from Boise State. I'm all about the little guy, but did these underdogs earn it?

Decisions, decisions.

Help me out here. Share you thoughts in the comments section of my blog.

Posted by ilimon at 01:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)

Katie Hnida was on the Today show this morning promoting her book, "Still Kicking: My Journey as the First Woman to Play Division I Football."

Almost all the footage was of UNM at the Emerald Bowl and some practice film, which they had from the last time she was on following the bowl game. Most of the segment was recounting her story as a star high school kicker, her tumultous time at CU and the second chance she got at UNM.

She was interviewed by host Meredith Viera, who asked a few questions after giving all the background information. The first question was why write the book when the topic is so painful. Hnida responded, "Well on one hand it never completely goes away. This I something I will have to deal with the rest of my life. ... It was really important for me to share this story. There are so many women and men who suffer from sexual assault ..."

Then she was asked whether she wished she had come forward when the rape first happened and if she thought it would have changed anything. That could be a pretty controversial question second-guessing the response of sex assault victim, but Hnida handled it pretty smoothly. She said " That is a very hard question to answer. I really don’t know if it would have made a difference .... I was 18 years old and in a very terrible situation."

Viera asked Hnida why she chose to speak out back in 2004 when she granted her interview to Sports Illustrated columnist Rick Reilly. Hnida responded she didn't think Colorado officials were taking the rape allegations by other women very seriously.

The Today show also played the infamous clip of ex-Colorado coach Gary Barnett saying she wasn't just a girl but a terrible kicker. Hnida was asked how she felt about his remarks years later. She said, "Actually the same as when that first came out. I think that that was a classless remark, but I was not that surprised because that was the coach that I knew."

Hnida was asked if she ever considered quitting, and she said she only entertained the idea for one really bad night and kept pushing herself to overcome the obstacles.

Then she was asked what it felt like to finally score. Hnida said it was wonderful, but it was even better the next day when she found out it was her teammates who pushed for her to get into the game.

And finally she was asked if she would recommend other girls take up kicking. She said, "Yeah absolutely. I think there are tons of great programs. And if it’s something you love to do, you should go for it."

Hnida will be on Larry King Live tonight.

She will be in Albuquerque Wednesday and Thursday. Hnida will speak and sign copies of her memoir at Book Works, 4022 Rio Grande Blvd. N.W., at 7 p.m. Wednesday and the UNM Bookstore at 2 p.m. Thursday.

Posted by ilimon at 08:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I think this might the first time in UNM history when a two football players (Cody Kase and Kenny Byrd), a men's basketball player (JR Giddens) and a women's basketball player (Dionne Marsh) all were named Mountain West Conference players of the week at the same time.

Not a bad week for the Lobos.

Posted by ilimon at 05:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Everyone's still pretty happy over at the UNM football complex the day after their big win over San Diego State to earn a spot in the New Mexico Bowl.

The team will take this week off, then practice for three days the following week, four the next week and treat the week before the bowl game as a regular practice week. It looks like UNM will face San Jose State, but the Lobos won't know for sure until the final BCS standings come out and it is clear Boise State is going to a BCS game. Boise State has moved up so high in the polls, its highly unlikely the Broncos would fall out of big-money bowl. That moves everyone in the WAC up a bowl spot and lets San Jose come here.

UNM coach Rocky Long said the Lobos will spend half the practice running against the scout team in bowl preparation, then the players returning next year will use the second half of practice like a spring football workout. He said the seniors will do some form of conditioning but likely will finish workouts early.

Long said the Lobos won't pick a starting quarterback until the coaches get a chance to see how both backup senior Chris Nelson and injured starter Donovan Porterie perform in practice. Porterie still is not back at full strength after spraining his ankle against TCU two weeks ago. Long also raised the possibility of starting all the UNM seniors for one play.

The next weeks will be pretty big for UNM recruiting. The Lobos only have 15 seniors on scholarship to replace, but they need to sign some junior college offensive linemen and fill in some other holes. So seven assistant coaches are going to be on the road the next two weeks, with a few staying home next weekend if they have recruits coming to town on official visits. UNM coach Rocky Long will run the first three bowl practices with a skeleton crew while his coaches stay on the recruiting trail.

There were no major injuries reported after the San Diego State game.

Long said he was happy with the win over the Aztecs, but he was not happy his team let up on both sides of the ball in the fourth quarter. San Diego State had 27 snaps in the fourth quarter, which is twice as many as Long would have liked to have seen. He said part of the problem was the defense allowing San Diego State to move the ball, and the other part was the UNM offense only running six plays and failing to run time off the clock. "I guess that's expected but it upsets you as a coach," Long said.

That's all for now. Check out Monday's Tribune for loads more Lobo football coverage.

Posted by ilimon at 03:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

OK, I'm done after a very busy day.

My women's basketball postgame story has been posted on the Trib Web site, and you can find it at this link.

Have a good night ... err good morning.

Posted by ilimon at 11:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

That's a wrap from here.

I was off by one on the all tournament team.

Dionne Marsh, UNM
Laura Menty, Siena
Carolyn Whitney, Georgia Southern
Dee Dee Murphy, Western Illinois
MVP: Julie Briody, UNM

Check out Lobo Zone soon for a complete postgame story.

Posted by ilimon at 10:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

At the 4:49 mark UNM had freshmen and a sophomore on the floor -- Amy Beggin, Christian Shelter, Georonika Jackson, Eileen Weissmann and Morgan Saso.

Here's my all-tournament team ballot:

Amy Beggin, UNM
Dionne Marsh, UNM
Laura Menty, Siena
Carolyn Whitney, Georgia Southern
Julie Briody, MVP

It's a tough call between Marsh and Briody for the MVP, but I thought Briody was tougher on both sides of the ball.

Posted by ilimon at 09:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Valerie Kast had eight points and was replaced by Morgan Saso.

UNM has a 69-28 lead with 7:50 left in the game.

It's all over but the subs and awards.

Posted by ilimon at 09:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Valerie Kast made the most of her playing time so far, scoring four points, grabbing two boards and blocking one shot in three minutes.

Posted by ilimon at 09:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM just keeps rolling here, extending the lead.

Now comes the exciting part. Valerie Kast just substituted for Timi E-Nunu before the timeout.

Posted by ilimon at 09:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Dionne Marsh hit a freethrow with 55.3 seconds to hit the 1,000-point mark, making her the 14th player to reach the elite club. She got a big standing ovation from The Pit crowd and still managed to hit her second freethrow following the announcer's interruption.

She is the second-fastest Lobo and second-fastest player in Mountain West Conference history to reach the 1,000-point club. Former Lobo Alison Foote and former Utah star Kim Smith are the only two players in school and conference history to reach 1,000 points faster than Marsh.

Marsh has 11 first-half points and 1,001 career points. She also has four rebounds and two assists.

Julie Briody is leading the Lobos with 12 points, three assists, three rebounds and one block.

Katie Montgomery has nine points, going 3-of-5 from 3-point range.

Laura Menty still leads Siena with six points.

It's pretty much a clinic for the Lobos. We'll see if more freshmen come off the bench in the second half for quality minutes.

Posted by ilimon at 09:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Katie Montgomery knocked down another 3-pointer and is now 3-of-5 from beyond the arc.

Dionne Marsh is up to seven points, three shy of the 1,000-point mark.

Julie Briody continues to play well, with 12 points, three assists, one block and two rebounds.

Siena's leading scorer is Laura Menty with six points.

UNM really is just trouncing Siena.

Posted by ilimon at 08:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos keep rolling and are on a 5-0 run since the last official timeout.

Julie Briody is all over the floor, forcing a tie ball and blocking a shot in the past minute.

Dionne Marsh scored, making her seven points away from the record.

Katie Montgomery missed her first 3-pointer of the night but is still two-of-three from beyond the arc.

Posted by ilimon at 08:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Katie Montgomery is two-for-two from 3-point range, helping the Lobos go on a 16-7 run and claim a 21-10 advantage.

At one point, it was a 13-2 Lobo run, forcing Siena to call timeout. The Lobos forced a turnover on the play right after the timeout and are in good shape here.

Dionne Marsh has one point, which means she is nine away from the 1,000-point plateau.

Posted by ilimon at 08:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Brandi Kimble picked up her first foul on the opening possession, but has two points for the Lobos. Timi E-Nunu has made the most of her first career start, scoring two points and drawing a charge. The biggest problem so far UNM is its three turnovers.

Posted by ilimon at 08:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Stay tuned for updates ...

Posted by ilimon at 08:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Georgia Southern earned a 64-60 win over Western Illinois in the consolation game, and the UNM-Siena game is about to tip off.

Angela Hartill isn't starting this game. Timi E-Nunu got the starting nod in her place. Pretty interesting, but E-Nunu has been playing well and Hartill has struggled.

Posted by ilimon at 08:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

My story on the Lobos' win over San Diego State has been posted on Lobo Zone, along with a Tribune photo. You also can visit the audio section of Lobo Zone to hear UNM coach Rocky Long's postgame remarks. And The Linz also offers his thoughts on the Lobos' win and invitation to the New Mexico Bowl.

So that's all the Lobo football coverage for tonight, but women's basketball fans come back soon for coverage of tonight's Thanksgiving tournament championship.

Posted by ilimon at 05:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Aleem Harris took a fair catch on the kickoff, starting the UNM drive at its 31-yard line.

Paul Baker carried for one yard on the first play of the drive. Looks like Rodney Ferguson is done for the day. He didn't play the fourth quarter, a move to protect him for the big New Mexico Bowl game. UNM ran again, this time gaining four yards. UNM faced third-and-five at its 36. Nelson passed on the next play to Marcus Smith, who could have caught the pass on target but dropped it.

UNM punted, and San Diego State will start the next drive on its 21-yard line with 6:01 left

The Aztecs moved the ball well for awhile and managed to get a first down on a fourth-and-four on its 42. There is 3:51 left in the game.

The New Mexico Bowl will be handing out hats to the Lobos and making their official bowl invitation following the game. I'm heading down early to catch the celebration. Check out Lobo Zone for a postgame story and musing from The Linz.

Posted by ilimon at 03:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kevin O'Connell passed twice, quickly moving the ball to the UNM 27-yard line. O'Connell kept the ball on the next play, scrambling for 10 yards. O'Connell completed another pass to move the ball to the UNM 10-yard line. The Aztecs ran on the next play to the UNM 3-yard line. The Aztecs ran again for no gain. It brought up second-and-goal at the three. O'Connell threw under pressure and it was nearly picked off. O'Connell finally completed a three-yard touchdown pass. Garrett Palmer completed the extra point, making the score 41-14 with 7:53 left in the game.

The Aztecs offense is coming to life against UNM's reserves.

Posted by ilimon at 03:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Marcus Smith returned the San Diego State kickoff to the 30-yard line, but there was a flag on the play. UNM was called for illegal block in the back, which means the Lobos start at their eight-yard line because the foul was so early in the return.

Paul Baker ran the ball for three yards. Baker ran again for one yard, bringing up third-and-six at the UNM 13. Chris Nelson's pass intended for Chris Mark was incomplete. UNM punted and San Diego State took a fair catch at the Aztecs' 48.

Posted by ilimon at 03:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

On days like this, I kind of wish there was a mercy rule and running clock.

San Diego State is back for that third-and-five. Kevin O'Connell completed his pass near the middle for a gain of 10 yards. O'Connell scrambled for a gain of eight yards. He passed again for a gain of seven yards on the play. O'Connell passed again for a gain of 16 on the next play. O'Connell completed his next pass to Brandon Bornes, who finally scored for the Aztecs on a 28-yard catch. San Diego State's Garrett Palmer hit the extra point and the Aztecs trail UNM 41-7 with 13:11 left in the game.

Posted by ilimon at 03:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

San Diego State returned the Lobos' kickoff 25 yards to start its drive at the 26-yard line.

O'Connell's pass was a little behind his receiver and incomplete. O'Connell's next pass was complete for a gain of five yards, bringing up third-and-five at the Aztecs' 31-yard line. San Diego State let the clock run out, ending the third quarter.

Posted by ilimon at 02:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson ran for 31 yards on the first play of the drive, pushing his total to 210 yards on 20 carries so far today. Quincy Wright had the school best 265 yards in a single game, a mark Ferguson is closing in on if the coaches leave him in the game.

Chris Nelson scrambled and completed a pass to Marcus Smith for an 11-yard gain. It gave UNM a first down at the Aztecs' 20. Ferguson ran on the next play for four yards. Ferguson tripped on the next play and appeared to fumble the ball, but the officials said he was down. UNM got lucky with only a loss of four instead of a San Diego State touchdown.

Nelson hit Chris Mark across the middle on the next play for a 20-yard touchdown. It was Mark's first touchdown catch. Kenny Byrd hit the extra point, pushing UNM ahead 41-0.

Posted by ilimon at 02:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Lobos were offsides again on the kickoff, so San Diego State starts its drive on its 25-yard line.

Kevin O'Connell's first pass was complete for a seven-yard gain. The Aztecs ran for no gain. It brought up third-and-three at the San Diego State 32. O'Connell scrambled for a seven-yard gain before he was forced out by Quincy Black. The Aztecs ran again for no gain. O'Connell threw under pressure and completed it across the middle for no gain. It brought up third-and-10 at the San Diego State 39. O'Connell rolled to the left and threw the ball out of bounds to no one.

San Diego State punted and Thomas Wilson returned it 23 yards to the UNM 39.

Posted by ilimon at 02:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The fumble call was challenged but it stands. The officials didn't have much to go on, but I guess the stadium cameras backed up the call. This game is not broadcast on TV, so the stadium cameras are the only video evidence available.

The Lobos opened with a run for a loss of one. Rodney Ferguson broke off a big run, rushing on the next carry for 23 yards. Paul Baker ran for six yards on the next play to the UNM 48. Baker carried again for three yards. It brought up third-and-one at the Aztecs' 49. Ferguson ran out of the pocket, cut left to dodge defenders and dodged more by cutting to the right for a 49-yard touchdown run. Kenny Byrd hit the extra point, pushing UNM ahead 34-0 with 6:34 left in the third quarter.

Ferguson has 19 carries for 179 yards and two touchdowns so far today.

Posted by ilimon at 02:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Aztecs opened with a reverse, but the Lobos stuck with it and backup quarterback Kevin Craft was sacked by Cody Kase for a loss of 10 yards on the play. Man, San Diego State is having a reaaaaally bad day.

Kevin O'Connell tucked the ball and ran on the next play for four yards, bringing up third-and-16 at the Aztecs' 36. O'Connell's next pass was complete for a gain of 32 yards that bailed the Aztecs out big time. The Aztecs ran on the next play for six yards all the way to the UNM 26-yard line. The Aztecs ran again, this time gaining 9 yards on the play to the UNM 17. This time, the Aztecs just might score.

The Aztecs used another reverse pitch but got no gain on the play. O'Connell's next pass was complete for five yards, bringing up third-and-five at the UNM 12. O'Connell was hit as he was throwing and his pass across the middle was tipped, but there was a flag on the play. UNM was called for offsides, bringing up third-and-one at the UNM seven. The Aztecs got two yards on a rushing play, plowing ahead to bring up first and goal at the five.

O'Connell kept it but appeared to fumble on the goal line. The officials ruled OJ Swift forced the fumble and recovered by Blake Ligon. It was fumbled into the endzone and was touchback for the Lobos.

Posted by ilimon at 02:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Today's attendance is a paltry 23,421. It is the lowest since the 2000 home finale against San Diego State drew 21,007.

San Diego State kicked off and the Lobos start at their 20.

Rodney Ferguson rushed for one yard on the first play of UNM's drive to open third quarter. Ferguson ran again for what appeared to be around six yards, but there was an illegal block in the back by New Mexico. The play counts, but UNM faces second-and-13 its 17. Chris Nelson's pass was intended for Travis Brown, but he caught it out of bounds. It brought up a quick third-and-13 for the Lobos. Nelson's pass intended for Thomas Wilson was incomplete and about five yards long on the left sideline.

Jordan Scott stepped back to punt and UNM downed it at the Aztecs' 42-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 02:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I had some technical difficulties, so this blog entry covers the last few possessions of the first half. I think the Linz cursed my computer, but it fought back.

Rodney Ferguson ran for one yard, then added another three on the second play of the drive. It brought up third-and-six at the 46. Chris Nelson completed a pass to John Mulchrone for nine yards. It brought up a first down at the Aztecs' 38. Nelson's next pass was a bomb to Travis Brown, but it was well-covered and incomplete. Brown stood up with a slight limp but looks fine, while the Aztecs corner was hurt and needed trainers to help him off the field.

Rodney Ferguson ran for six yards on the next play, moving the ball to the Aztecs' 32. Nelson's pass was complete to Brown for an eight-yard gain. Ferguson ran for a gain of three-yards on the play. Nelson's pass was intended for Marcus Smith, but Smith stepped out of bounds in the endzone on the catch so it was ruled incomplete. It brought up third-and-seven on the 20. UNM called timeout with 4:33 left in the second quarter.

Nelson was sacked for a loss of eight on the play, which probably isn't what Bob Toledo had in mind after the timeout.

Kenny Byrd stepped up for a 45-yard field-goal attempt. Byrd hit and the Lobos extended their lead to 27-0 with 3:39 left in the second quarter.

UNM had a five-yard penalty on the kickoff and the Aztecs fumbled but recovered the ball on a pass play early in the drive. Then Kevin O’Connell hit two long passes, moving the ball to the UNM 27-yard line. O’Connell scrambled on the next play and was sacked by George Carter for a loss of one. O’Connell completed his next pass for a gain of 12, bringing up first-and-10 at the UNM 16. O’Connell lob pass into the back of the end zone was incomplete, bringing up second down. O'Connell scrambled for nine yards, bringing up third-and-one on the UNM seven with 36 seconds left in the half. O'Connell was sacked by Cody Kase for a loss of five, bringing up fourth-and-six at the UNM 12. The Aztecs called another timeout to stop the clock at 26 seconds.

The Lobos blocked a field goal attempt by Garrett Palmer, shutting out the Aztecs in the first half.

Posted by ilimon at 01:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson ran for one yard, then added another three on the second play of the drive. It brought up third-and-six at the 46. Chris Nelson completed a pass to John Mulchrone for nine yards. It brought up a first down at the Aztecs' 38. Nelson's next pass was a bomb to Travis Brown, but it was well-covered and incomplete. Brown stood up with a slight limp but looks fine, while the Aztecs corner was hurt and needed trainers to help him off the field.

Rodney Ferguson ran for six yards on the next play, moving the ball to the Aztecs' 32. Nelson's pass was complete to Brown for an eight-yard gain. Ferguson ran for a gain of three-yards on the play. Nelson's pass was intended for Marcus Smith, but Smith stepped out of bounds in the endzone on the catch so it was ruled incomplete. It brought up third-and-seven on the 20. UNM called timeout with 4:33 left in the second quarter.

Nelson was sacked for a loss of eight on the play, which probably isn't what Bob Toledo had in mind after the timeout.

Kenny Byrd stepped up for a 45-yard field-goal attempt. Byrd hit and the Lobos extended their lead to 27-0 with 3:39 left in the game.

Posted by ilimon at 01:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson ran for one yard, then added another three on the second play of the drive. It brought up third-and-six at the 46. Chris Nelson completed a pass to John Mulchrone for nine yards. It brought up a first down at the Aztecs' 38. Nelson's next pass was a bomb to Travis Brown, but it was well-covered and incomplete. Brown stood up with a slight limp but looks fine, while the Aztecs corner was hurt and needed trainers to help him off the field.

Rodney Ferguson ran for six yards on the next play, moving the ball to the Aztecs' 32. Nelson's pass was complete to Brown for an eight-yard gain. Ferguson ran for a gain of three-yards on the play. Nelson's pass was intended for Marcus Smith, but Smith stepped out of bounds in the endzone on the catch so it was ruled incomplete. It brought up third-and-seven on the 20. UNM called timeout with 4:33 left in the second quarter.

Nelson was sacked for a loss of eight on the play, which probably isn't what Bob Toledo had in mind after the timeout.

Kenny Byrd stepped up for a 45-yard field-goal attempt. Byrd hit and the Lobos extended their lead to 27-0 with 3:39 left in the second quarter.

Posted by ilimon at 01:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson ran for one yard, then added another three on the second play of the drive. It brought up third-and-six at the 46. Chris Nelson completed a pass to John Mulchrone for nine yards. It brought up a first down at the Aztecs' 38. Nelson's next pass was a bomb to Travis Brown, but it was well-covered and incomplete. Brown stood up with a slight limp but looks fine, while the Aztecs corner was hurt and needed trainers to help him off the field.

Rodney Ferguson ran for six yards on the next play, moving the ball to the Aztecs' 32. Nelson's pass was complete to Brown for an eight-yard gain. Ferguson ran for a gain of three-yards on the play. Nelson's pass was intended for Marcus Smith, but Smith stepped out of bounds in the endzone on the catch so it was ruled incomplete. It brought up third-and-seven on the 20. UNM called timeout with 4:33 left in the second quarter.

Nelson was sacked for a loss of eight on the play, which probably isn't what Bob Toledo had in mind after the timeout.

Kenny Byrd stepped up for a 45-yard field-goal attempt. Byrd hit and the Lobos extended their lead to 27-0 with 3:39 left in the second quarter.

Posted by ilimon at 01:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson ran for one yard, then added another three on the second play of the drive. It brought up third-and-six at the 46. Chris Nelson completed a pass to John Mulchrone for nine yards. It brought up a first down at the Aztecs' 38. Nelson's next pass was a bomb to Travis Brown, but it was well-covered and incomplete. Brown stood up with a slight limp but looks fine, while the Aztecs corner was hurt and needed trainers to help him off the field.

Rodney Ferguson ran for six yards on the next play, moving the ball to the Aztecs' 32. Nelson's pass was complete to Brown for an eight-yard gain. Ferguson ran for a gain of three-yards on the play. Nelson's pass was intended for Marcus Smith, but Smith stepped out of bounds in the endzone on the catch so it was ruled incomplete. It brought up third-and-seven on the 20. UNM called timeout with 4:33 left in the second quarter.

Nelson was sacked for a loss of eight on the play, which probably isn't what Bob Toledo had in mind after the timeout.

Kenny Byrd stepped up for a 45-yard field-goal attempt. Byrd hit and the Lobos extended their lead to 27-0 with 3:39 left in the second quarter.

Posted by ilimon at 01:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kevin O'Connell dumped the ball out of bounds under pressure, while the Lobos flirted with a safety. O'Connell attempted a dump pass on the next play but seemed too worried about the safety to complete it, bringing up third-and-10 at the Aztecs' 8.

The Aztecs called timeout.

UNM nearly got a safety, but O'Connell got rid of the ball just in time. The Aztecs punted from their end zone. Thomas Wilson received the punt and was dropped at the 50-yard line for a two-yard loss on the return.

Posted by ilimon at 01:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chris Nelson's first pass was complete to Yimin Bauman for a 19-yard gain. It was, by far, Nelson's nicest pass of the game. Rodney Ferguson ran for a gain of three. Nelson was sacked on the next play for a loss of six yards. He didn't get any weak side protection and didn't have time to scramble away from the pressure. It brought up third-and-13 at the UNM 46. Nelson's pass was complete to Thomas Wilson, who gained 12 yards on the play, bringing up fourth-and-one. UNM punter Jordan Scott had a nice punt and San Diego State takes over at its eight-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 01:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kevin O'Connell completed a pass to start the second quarter, but the Aztecs were dropped for a two-yard loss on a running play. It brought up third-and-five at the Aztecs' 25. O'Connell's next pass was complete for a gain of 14.

O'Connell's next pass to the right sideline was incomplete. He completed his next pass across the middle for 14 yards, moving the ball to UNM's 47. O'Connell scrambled for again of 15 yards, moving the ball to the Lobos' 32. O'Connell passed for seven yards on the next play. O'Connell held on to the ball too long and was sacked by Major Mosley for a loss of five. Tyler Donaldson tipped O'Connell's next pass and nearly earned an interception but the ball fell incomplete.

Garrett Palmer set up to attempt a 48-yard field goal, but it was a trick play. Palmer's pass fell incomplete and UNM took over on downs. Again.

Posted by ilimon at 01:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Another Kenny Byrd touchback.

Chris Nelson only has eight yards passing, but the Lobos lead 24-0. How crazy is that?

This time San Diego State started with a run for a gain of two yards. It marks the merciful end of the first quarter.

Posted by ilimon at 01:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Yet another touchback for Kenny Byrd.

It's hard to believe San Diego State beat Air Force this year.

Blake Ligon picked off San Diego State's Kevin O'Connell, running it back for a 24-yard touchdown. Kenny Byrd hit the extra point, pushing UNM up 24-0 with 38 seconds left in the first quarter.

Posted by ilimon at 01:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson ran for eight yards on the first play of the drive. Ferguson ran again to the nine-yard line and just hit 1,000 yards rushing this season. He ran again for no gain, hanging on to his 1,003 rushing yards. Ferguson carried again for four yards. It brought up third-and-goal at the five. Chris Nelson's pass was complete to Travis Brown for a five-yard touchdown. Kenny Byrd hit the extra point, pushing the Lobos ahead 17-0 with 1:04 left in the first quarter.

Posted by ilimon at 01:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kenny Byrd kicked the ball out of the end zone again, forcing the Aztecs to start at their 20-yard line.

Kevin O'Connell's first pass was complete for a gain of six yards. His interceptions have been costly, but he is moving the ball better than Chris Nelson. The Aztecs ran for a three-yard gain, bringing up third-and-one at the Aztecs' 29. O'Connell scrambled for no gain, bringing up a fourth-and-one. The Aztecs lost one yard on the play, and the Lobos took over at the San Diego State 29-yard line on downs.

Posted by ilimon at 01:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Aztecs ran for three yards on the first play. They ran again and were dropped for a two-yard loss. It quickly brought up a quick third-and-nine at the Aztecs' 13. UNM got their second interception of the day, with DeAndre Wright picking off Kevin O'Connell on his left side. The ball was spotted at the Aztecs' 26.

Rodney Ferguson ran on the Lobos' first play of the drive and ran it in for a 26-yard touchdown.

Kenny Byrd hit the extra point, pushing the Lobos ahead 10-0 with 5:24 left in the first quarter.

Posted by ilimon at 12:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson ran for nine yards for his first carry of the day. Chris Nelson's threw an wobbly pass behind Marcus Smith, and it fell incomplete. Ferguson ran for three yards on the next play and a first down. Nelson isn't looking so good early here.

Ferguson ran for 11 yards on the next play, shaking off some defenders. Nelson's next pass to Travis Brown also was off and incomplete. He passed up open receivers to force the ball to Brown. Ferguson had another big run, jumping over a defender to get the last few yards on a 13-yard rumble, giving UNM a first down on Aztecs' 45-yard line.

Paul Baker carried on the next play for a yard. He went left and the Aztecs were ready for the run. Nelson scrambled out of a quickly collapsing pocket on the next play and actually got the ball safely out of bounds without a penalty. That's progress for a guy who has struggled to get rid of the ball quickly and was sacked a lot earlier this season.

Nelson's next throw was short and nearly intercepted, bringing up fourth-and-nine at the San Diego State 44.

Nelson is not looking good at all.

The Lobos punted and the Aztecs took a fair catch at their 12-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 12:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kenny Byrd sent his second kickoff sailing out of the end zone for a touchback.

Kevin O'Connell scrambled for a nine-yard run to open the Aztecs' second drive of the game. Brandon Bornes ran on the next play for a gain of 10 yards. O'Connell threw out of bounds, then completed his next pass for a gain of 11 yards.

San Diego State is moving the ball pretty well so far, with the exception of the interception.

O'Connell overthrew his receiver on the next play and it was incomplete, bringing up second-and-10 on the 50. O'Connell's next pass was on target, but his receiver dropped it to bring up a big third down for the Aztecs. O'Connell scrambled and threw the ball away to avoid a sack.

The Aztecs punted and Thomas Wilson took a fair catch at the UNM 19-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 12:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chris Nelson went long to Travis Brown on the right side but was just short. The refs calle pass interfence, giving the Lobos a first down at the Aztecs' 22. Nelson's next pass intended to Mulchrone also was way short. Nelson's next pass across the middle was complete to Brown for five yards. It brought up third-and-five at the San Diego State 17. Nelson threw into traffic to Marcus Smith for a loss of two yards.

Not sure why they didn't run with Rodney Ferguson playing so well lately, but a field goal is fine for now.

Kenny Byrd stepped up and hit a 35-yard field goal. The Lobos lead San Diego State 3-0 with 11.54 left in the first quarter.

Posted by ilimon at 12:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

San Diego State returned the opening kick to the 12-yard line. Kevin O'Connell passed for a 15-yard gain on the Aztecs' first play. Then the Aztecs ran the ball for no gain. O'Connell dropped back to pass again and it was intercepted by Cody Kase at the Aztecs' 37-yard line for no return.

Posted by ilimon at 12:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

and is kicking off.

Posted by ilimon at 12:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

They are introducing the seniors for what many hope is not their final game in University Stadium.

I just hope the New Mexico Bowl isn't turned off by the tiny crowd. I don't think I've ever seen it this empty for a game that means so much.

Posted by ilimon at 12:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Amy Beggin has turned in one of her better games of the season with 14 points. Eleven of those have come in the second half.

Dionne Marsh also has piled up 18 points, making her 14 away from the big 1,000-point milestone.

UNM went on a 17-1 run, but Georgia Southern picked up a couple of buckets when UNM let its guard down.

UNM leads 60-40, but the Lobos coaches still aren't happy.

That's all for now. Check out Lobo Zone soon for a complete postgame story.

Posted by ilimon at 09:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Angela Hartill picked up her fourth foul with 7:44 left, prompting the media timeout.

She has been hounded by foul trouble all season, and it's hurt her chance to produce much in the game. Eileen Weissman and Timi E-Nunu, however, have been big winners as a result of Angela's trouble.

I hope UNM gets it together enough so we see more of Valerie Kast.

Posted by ilimon at 09:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM went on a 10-0 run, then Georgia Southern countered with a 8-0 run of their own. Julie Briody broke up the trouble for the Lobos with a layup and pair of free throws.

The Lobos just need to regroup to seal the win.

Posted by ilimon at 09:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It's still relatively ugly out here, but the Lobos are hitting more shots than Georgia Southern to extend their lead.

UNM is just 3-of-14 from the field but four-of-four from the free-throw line, while the Eagles are 1-of-10 from the field and 0-of-2 from the free-throw line.

Mike Hall, of the Journal, says hi to all his fans who read the Trib. He says he loves you baby.

Posted by ilimon at 09:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Georgia Southern was 1-of-6 from the field, while UNM got its points early on freethrows.

Posted by ilimon at 09:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

So I thought the crowd was bigger because the stands opposite me are full.

But the attendance was 8,505.

Georgia Southern is frigid in the second half, going 0-for-5 in the second half from the field. The Lobos obviously are taking advantage of the Eagles' slump are lead 33-23.

Posted by ilimon at 09:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I'm glad I'm not in the UNM lockerroom right now.

The Lobos turned in a relatively sloppy first half, and I'm sure Mr. Fundamentals Don Flanagan is not happy. In fact, I know he's not because he prowls the sidelines right in front of me.

UNM had a chance to score eight points in the final minute thanks to a strange string of over the back fouls by the Eagles in the span of two seconds. The Lobos only managed three points, making the whole series more comical and infuriating Flanagan quite a bit.

The Lobos also were out-rebounded 12-6 on the offensive boards and 23-22 overall.

UNM had 10 turnovers, while Georgia Southern had 11.

Did I mention it was a sloppy half?

The Eagles cooled off after starting out hot, shooting 21.2 percent from the field.The Lobos shot 43.5 percent from the field.

Dionne Marsh leads all scorers with eight points, while Brandi Kimble is the game's top rebounder with eight boards.

Guards Ashley Rivens and Carolyn Whitney have seven points apiece.

Let's see if Flanagan's halftime talk lights a fire under the Lobos.

Posted by ilimon at 08:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Valerie Kast looked good for awhile but picked up two fouls and was sent to the bench.

Lobos also have given up 11 offensive rebounds to their two. They're gonna hear about that in the lockerroom.

Posted by ilimon at 08:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Lobos lead 23-16, with Valerie Kast coming off the bench and making an impact to the delight of the crowd. Kast scored two points and had two blocks in a row.

The game has been pretty sloppy with a lot of turnovers, but it's not for lack of effort. Both teams are all over the floor, getting after the ball.

Posted by ilimon at 08:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Georgia Southern came out with a little more energy, but the Lobos are starting to make some more hustle plays and are under more control than at the start of the game.

UNM is shooting 55.6 percent from the field, while the Eagles are hitting 45.5 percent.

Angela Hartill is on the bench again with two fouls.

Posted by ilimon at 08:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM is off to a sloppy start, while Georgia Southern hit a couple of open shots to briefly take a 6-8 lead. Coach Don Flanagan is taking advantage of the official timeout to settle down the troops and remind the Lobos to run their offense.

The Eagles are coming off a game where they hit 13 3-pointers against Georgia, so it's not good to give them room to shoot or a reason to be confident.

The upside is UNM is 3-for-3 from the field, with Katie Montgomery hitting her first 3 of the game already.

Posted by ilimon at 08:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Same starting lineup for the Lobos, and there's a decent sized crowd for a day after Thanksgiving game.

Posted by ilimon at 08:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

In the early game of the UNM women's basketball team's Thanksgiving tournament, Siena earned an 82-65 win over Western Illinois. Although I hadn't seen either team, I thought Western Illinois would win based on the two teams' records. Siena improves to 1-3, while Western Illinois fell to 1-3. Siena shot really well, hitting 53 percent from the field.

Siena meets the winner of the UNM-Georgia Southern.

Stay tuned for tipoff ...

Posted by ilimon at 07:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I slipped down to El Paso to spend Thanksgiving with my family, but you can still look to the Tribune for loads of UNM football and women's basketball coverage. I did a lot of interviews ahead of time and am writing from the road.

You can still check the blog for updates and Lobo Zone for stories all week.

I'll be back in time to cover the women's basketball tournament Friday and the triple header Sunday -- football midday and two basketball games that evening. Perhaps you can guess why I escaped when I had the chance.

For football fans who missed the print edition, I added a box with Robert Turner's Thanksgiving menu. He wanted to be a chef when he was a kid and will cooking up a storm tomorrow:
- 10 pounds of oven-roasted, sliced turkey breast (he did turkey last year and wanted to try something different)
- 8-pound ham
- stuffing
- mashed potatoes
- green beans
- corn bread
- and his girlfriend will handle desserts.

For women's basketball fans, the Lobos have a tradition of gathering at one house with their moms cooking a Thanksgiving feast while the girls are at practice. The team watched film on Wednesday because UNM coach Don Flanagan wisely decided he wouldn't have the team's complete attention on Thanksgiving. Good plan.

That's all for my Wednesday night update, but I saved a few bits of news and notes I'll share on Thanksgiving day. I'll also have stories in the Thursday's Trib.

And just in case you read this before my Thursday update ... Happy Thanksgiving.

Posted by ilimon at 08:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

As previously reported, Chris Nelson will be starting in place of Donovan Porterie Saturday. There was little doubt during Tuesday's practice that Porterie was in a lot of pain and in no shape to play Saturday. He was limping around trying to keep up with the team. The best hope now is that he can play as the backup Saturday.

John Mulchrone, on the other hand, had a much better day. He showed dramatic improvement after suffering a sprained knee against BYU and is on track to play Saturday. Major Mosley, who suffered a concussion against the Cougars, practiced without any contact Tuesday. Trainers expect him to play but they want to be cautious before letting him take any more hits.

I thought the team had been hitting harder and seemed more focus this week. UNM coach Rocky Long backed up my suspicion during the weekly media lunch, but he wasn't so happy about it. He's worried the players are too aware of how much is on the line Saturday and may tense up under pressure in a way they haven't all season.

I don' t think he is necessarily giving the guys enough credit. I've talked with them all year, and they don't need any prompting to point out streaks or what's on the line for a game. They knew about their record after bye weeks long before I ever asked about it. There's a level of awareness that just goes with territory, especially athletes this age who are much more aware of stats and streaks and implications of games.

At the same time, I know Long's been in this spot before. Last year's loss hurt the program a lot. A win this year means a bowl berth, lots of extra practice and would put te team way ahead next year. He said he wished the game was played Tuesday because it is a stressful time. He knows what a win means and what a loss means.

Well, that's all for today. Check out Wednesday's Tribune for loads more football coverage.

Posted by ilimon at 07:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM coach Rocky Long said Chris Nelson will start against the Aztecs because Donovan Porterie still hasn't recovered from the sprained left ankle he suffered against TCU. I wrote a story this afternoon about Nelson taking over the starting job.

Posted by ilimon at 02:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

For Lobo Brian Urlacher is putting up money to help bring an Arena Football League team to the Albuquerque-Rio Rancho area. We posted a story on the Tribune's Web site about Urlacher's involvement.

Posted by ilimon at 02:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Former UNM women's basketball player Abbie Letz is working as a La Cueva girls assistant basketball coach this season.

Letz said she didn't plan to follow in her mom's footsteps and head into coaching, but she is helping the Bears out this season while she completes her student teaching.

Just thought y'all would want to know.

Posted by ilimon at 08:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

UNM quarterback Donovan Porterie practiced Monday with a special air cast on his left ankle. Porterie didn't have his full range of motion, but UNM trainer Dave Binder said there was a good chance Porterie could play against San Diego State Saturday.

Porterie said he still isn't at full strength and isn't sure he can play Saturday. He said it hurt to roll out on a throw during practice, but he didn't skip any throws during Monday night's practice. He said he will push himself as hard as he can all week, but the game is too important and he won't play unless he can help the team.

Tight end John Mulchrone suffered a sprained knee against BYU and hobbled through practice. He had a knee brace and struggled to get through a lot of plays. Binder isn't sure whether he will be able to play against San Diego State.

Linebacker Major Mosley sat out practice because he had a headache Monday. Mosley suffered a concussion at BYU, so trainers told him to sit out practice. He will be monitored by team doctors every day, but Binder said the doctors think Mosley will be able to play this week.

And cornerback Glover Quin, the other guy hurt against BYU, was back at practice Monday. He had a muscle strain in his neck but didn't suffer a concussion or any serious neck trauma. Quin couldn't turn his head much Sunday, but he has his range of motion back and was able to go through drills with no problem.

San Diego State named Kevin O'Connell its starting quarterback Monday night. O'Connell was the team's starter at the beginning of the season, but he suffered a severe thumb injury and missed a bunch of games. He came back for the past two games, splitting time with redshirt freshman Kevin Craft. Aztecs coaches said they are just going with one quarterback this week, which means it's all O'Connell.

UNM went through its regular, relatively light Monday workout. The offense started the early version of its game plan, while the defense did a mix of some of its coverages and running. The guys had a lot of sprints because BYU scored so many points on them Saturday.

Video coordinator Jason Strauss ran the scout team again, while third-string quarterback Bryan Clampitt ran plays with Porterie and backup Chris Nelson. UNM coach Rocky Long said Clampitt would stay with the starting offense unless Porterie starts limping a lot less and is in good shape to play Saturday.

That's all for today. Check out Tuesday's Tribune for more Lobo football coverage.

Posted by ilimon at 08:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Oh, the controversy is heating up. This is absolutely why college football needs a playoff system. Until that day comes, we have these crazy polls.

I cast a vote in the Harris poll, one of three factors used to determine Bowl Championship Series standings. The standings are used to award spots in the BCS bowl games and name a national champion. Here are my picks this week:

1. Ohio State
2. Michigan
3. Florida
4. USC
5. Notre Dame
6. Boise State
7. Arkansas
8. Louisville
9. LSU
10. West Virginia
11. Wisconsin
12. Texas
13. Auburn
14. Rutgers
15. Oklahoma
16. Georgia Tech
17. Virginia Tech
18. BYU
19. Cal
20. Boston College
21. Tennessee
22. Clemson
23. Wake Forest
24. Nebraska
25. Hawaii

I did pick Michigan No. 2. Do I want to see a repeat of the Ohio State-Michigan game? Maybe. I don't know. I know this week's poll doesn't really decide that, so I just compared all the one-loss teams. Michigan's loss was the least ugly.

What do you think? Should there be a Buckeyes-Wolverines rematch or are there other teams out there more worthy of playing in the national championship game? What if Michigan blows out Ohio State in the rematch? Who is the national champ?

Posted by ilimon at 01:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

So it all comes down to San Diego State.

Utah beat Air Force, albeit barely, meaning the Mountain West Conference can only have three teams with seven wins. That leaves New Mexico in the driver's seat as the most attractive potential six-win team for the New Mexico Bowl. All they have to do is beat the Aztecs Saturday.

UNM coach Rocky Long didn't have any updates on Donovan Porterie, who is still nursing a sprained ankle he suffered against TCU. Late last week, UNM trainer Dave Binder said Porterie was running at five miles per hour on a treadmill and the chances of him playing against San Diego State looked really good.

During the Utah game, senior tight end John Mulchrone suffered a twisted knee but the initial evaluation said it isn't a serious injury. Glover Quin walked through the football offices with perfect posture because he suffered a strained muscle in his neck and it's painful for him to move his head much. This injury is just supposed to therapy to work out the kinks and also isn't serious. And Major Mosley suffered a concussion and is being re-evaluated by team doctors today to determine whether there are any lingering effects.

Now a few notes from the game itself.

BYU coach Bronco Mendenhall, a former UNM defensive coordinator, shook hands with long at midfield before the Cougars fans took over the field for an hour-long celebration. Long said he told Mendenhall that he thought his team was good but they're even better than they looked on game tape. Bronco said thanks. It was a pretty brief exchange.

Long said he felt a lot better about the Lobos' performance after watching the game tape for several reasons. "A lot of our problems were because they're so good, not because we're so bad," Long said. He figured BYU quarterback John Beck got 200 of his passing yards with perfect throws that were relatively well covered. It was a special day for him. Beck also played a lot longer against the Lobos than most teams, probably because UNM scored quickly in the second half and it happened to be senior day.

Minutes after the game, Long told reporters it may have been a coaching mistake playing man-to-man coverage early, exposing the Lobos to the long touchdown passes and big lead BYU amassed early in the game. Long said after looking at the tape, he said he a change of heart realized it wouldn't have mattered if UNM played zone coverage because the Cougars still could have scored 42 points pretty easily. He said he could have gone with a zone, keeping the score close and cutting down on the passing yards UNM gave up, to save face. But he said playing very aggressively, with blitzes and man coverage to try to force turnovers, gave the Lobos the best chance to win. "I would still rather shoot all the bullets in the gun rather than just sitting there and taking your medicine."

He gave backup quarterback Chris Nelson good marks for running the offense more efficiently than he had in the past. Long said the Lobos were really hurt by three turnovers that thwarted promising scoring drives. "We were moving the ball well enough that we could've made the game exciting toward the end," he said.

And Long said he was pleased by the Lobos' effort. "If you were watching they're playing in the fourth quarter, you'd think we were only down by three," Long said.

That's all for today. Check out Monday's Trib for more football coverage.

Posted by ilimon at 03:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A reader asked me to revive a feature I did during part of the football season called "Catching up with ..." for women's basketball. I think it's a good idea, and I'd be happy to start doing stories on former UNM women's basketball players. Rather than just chasing down the players who pop into my mind, I figured I would ask readers for suggestions.

Which former women's basketball players would you like me write about? Post your favorites in the comments section of the blog, and I'll do my best to track these women down and let you know what they're up to now.

Posted by ilimon at 02:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)

It's tough to stop BYU 12 yards away from the endzone. The Cougars scored, pulling ahead 42-17 with 4:53 left in the game.

Actually, the run came up short, but BYU scored on the next play.

I'm heading down early to make sure I get a chance to talk with the Lobos about the game. Come back and visit Lobo Zone soon for a complete Web story.

Posted by ilimon at 04:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chris Nelson made a pretty good pass to Rodney Ferguson under pressure for a gain of nine. The Ferguson carried for on third-and-one, and was stopped for no gain with 7:41 left in the game.

UNM went for it, a dangerous proposition in BYU territory and Ferguson was stuffed after gaining an inch on a rushing attempt straight up the middle.

Posted by ilimon at 04:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

BYU moved the ball well again and seemed poised to score, but OJ Swift picked it off and ran it back to UNM 12.

Posted by ilimon at 04:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

Travis Brown ran for a six-yard gain on a reverse, bringing up third-and-14. Nelson was sacked to end the drive. It appeared it could have been a penalty driving Nelson into the ground, but nothing was called. UNM punted and BYU starts at its 24.

Posted by ilimon at 04:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Opps. BYU had great kickoff coverage and UNM started at its 5-yard line, waking up the rabid Cougars crowd.

Rodney Ferguson gave the Lobos a huge lift, running for nine yards and pushing past BYU defenders on the sidelines to the dismay of Cougars fans. The Quillen ran for a first down at the UNM 19. Chris Nelson threw an incomplete pass and the crowd let him hear it.

The BYU fans stayed pretty loud, but Ferguson ran ahead for seven yards to set up third-and-three. Then Nelson ran for the first down and appeared to protect himself enough to avoid any big hits. Ferguson ran again for seven yards. Ferguson ran again on second down and was wrapped up from behind for a loss of two. The crowd roared again on third-and-five at the UNM 36. Nelson still managed to hit Thomas Wilson for a gain of eight yards and a first down.

Nelson rolled way out to his right and fell down in the backfield. It was a loss of 10 and BYU was credited with a sack to end the third quarter.

Posted by ilimon at 04:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM had pretty good kickoff coverage, with BYU starting at its 16.

The BYU crowd is pretty quiet right now.

The Cougars gained three on a run, then John Beck hit McKay Jacobsen for a 26-yard gain. Then Beck hit Michael Reed for a gain of 13. Then the Cougars ran for another first down, marching up the field. Beck passed for another first down, moving to the UNM 15 in a flash. Beck hit Reed again for a gain of 11, making it first and goal at the 4.

Beck fired up the student section while in the huddle, then hit Matt Allen in the corner of the endzone for a touchdown. The extra point was good, pushing BYU ahead 35-17 with 4:58 left.

I suspect he got made about that interception and toyed with the Lobos on that drive.

Posted by ilimon at 04:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

BYU countered with a pretty good opening run of its own, with Curtis Brown running for 20 yards. UNM's Tyler Donaldson then sacked John Beck, setting up second-and-17 at the BYU 32. Beck's next pass was complete to Brown, who gained 11 on the play. Beck threads the ball so well in traffic. He hit Michael Reed for a 19-yard gain and big first down at the UNM 38.

Big Quincy Black picked off Beck and ran it back 88 yards for a touchdown.

Kenny Byrd hit the extra point, making the score BYU 28, New Mexico 17 with 8:56 left in the third quarter.

Posted by ilimon at 04:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson had a huge run to start the half, going 45 yards to the BYU 35. Then the Lobos used an option toss to Travis Brown for a 35-yard touchdown. That was 80 yards in two plays. Apparently, no lead is safe with the Lobos.

BYU challenged the call, arguing Brown stepped out. Luckily for the Lobos, Brown has really skinny feet and he stayed in bounds en route to the end zone.

The refs agreed with my take, Kenny Byrd hit the extra point and UNM is mounting a comeback.

Posted by ilimon at 03:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos had some promising drives, but they certainly can't afford turnovers against a team as talented and experienced as BYU.

UNM isn't just rolling over, but the team has to find ways to make more defensive stops and score on offense. And not just field goals. The trading touchdowns for field goals math doesn't work out in the Lobos' favor.

BYU already has more than 400 yards total offense, which is insane. UNM is getting some pressure on Beck, but he still has way too many options and is smart enough to find the best ones.

Want good news? The Lobos were down by more at the half against TCU.

Want more good news? There's a 99.9 percent chance the Lobos don't need this game to go to a bowl game.

Want even more good news? The Linz isn't hear to pick on the Lobos.

With that, let's get ready for the second half.

Posted by ilimon at 03:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos tried to mount a drive, but Nelson was picked off and BYU returned it to around the 11-yard line with 13.1 seconds left. BYU was called for a personal foul penalty on the return. It gave the Cougars a first-and-10 a the 35. John Beck's pass was broken up by Ian Clark, so BYU went for a 53-yard field goal. The kick was blocked making the score 28-3 BYU at the half.

Posted by ilimon at 03:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

BYU started at its 6-yard line, which would be dangerous for most teams. John Beck got the Cougars a first down, but he was hit again for the Lobos. They can only hope those swipes add up. Doesn't look like it fazed Beck. On the next play, he threw a perfect pass in decent UNM coverage for a 25-yard gain. Ouch. Beck threw an incomplete pass, then hit McKay Jacobson for another huge gain to bring up first and goal at the nine.

Aleem Harris hit Beck again, doing his part to the rattle the quarterback. UNM stopped the next run play, but Beck was patient in the pocket on the third-and-goal. He found Curtis Brown wide open in the right corner of the end zone for another touchdown. The extra point was good and BYU leads 28-3 with 1:02 left in the first half.

Well, it's not quite as bad as TCU yet.

Posted by ilimon at 03:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Well this time the Lobos didn't turn the ball over, but they couldn't sustain a drive. Chris Nelson did throw a good pass to Marcus Smith that would have kept the drive alive, but Smith tipped it and let it fall to the ground. UNM punted and had solid coveraging, forcing BYU to take over its six-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 03:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM's defense picked up a huge stop, turning BYU away in the red zone. DeAndre Wright had a huge deflection in the end zone to force the turnover on downs.

The Lobos may be overmatched, but they're fighters.

Posted by ilimon at 03:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos started the next drive on their 22-yard line.

Rodney Ferguson got the team off on the right track with a 12-yard run. Then Nelson bounced back by rolling to the left and hitting Travis Brown on the left sideline for a gain of 17. As bad as the score looks, UNM is moving the ball.

Ferguson ran on the next play for five yards, moving the ball up to the BYU 45-yard line. Nelson threw to Matt Quillen on the next play for no gain to bring up third-and-five. The more time Nelson has, the more he seems to throw behind his receivers.

On the big third-down, Nelson was almost sacked but BYU was called for a personal foul face mask. It was a 15-yard penalty and automatic first down.

So the Lobos moved to the BYU 29.

Paul Baker carried on the next play and fumbled away the Lobos' progress. BYU recovered at its 29-yard line. At the last second before BYU started its drive, it appears UNM asked for the play to be reviewed. It's hard to tell whether there was enough evidence to reverse the call, although I think he was down before the fumble.

The refs upheld the play and BYU takes over at its 29.

Posted by ilimon at 02:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It's like open target practice for John Beck, but the Lobos are lucky he's missed the long ones early in the drive. But UNM let Beck take his chances too many times, and he finally connected with Jonny Harline for a 71-yard touchdown pass. He managed to outrun Quincy Black for the touchdown, which isn't easy to do. The extra point was good, so BYU took a 21-3 lead with 13:26 left in the second quarter.

The only bright note for the Lobos is Beck was hit by Aleem Harris as he was throwing the ball. Beck looks fine, but those aren't easy hits to take.

Posted by ilimon at 02:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chris Nelson hit Travis Brown for a huge gain of 31 yards when it looked like the Lobos' drive was dead. The Lobos are fighting back a lot earlier than usual.

Then Chris Nelson had two errant passes in a row followed by a BYU interception that was intended for Travis Brown. There's a debate whether it was Brown's fault for not looking for the pass or if Nelson threw too late or too early.

Regardless, it's a turnover.

Posted by ilimon at 02:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

BYU took a touchback on the kickoff.

Curtis Brown ran for four yards on the first play, then John Beck threw the ball out of bounds. It brought up third-and-six at the BYU 24. And suddenly the soldout stadium is a lil' quiet. Beck's pass intended for McKay Jacobsen was incomplete and was broken up Glover Quin. BYU fans wanted pass interfence, but they didn't get it. BYU punted and UNM took over at its 38.

Posted by ilimon at 02:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

My flight was delayed and I ran into a slew of other trouble, but I was in the parking lot by kickoff.

BYU jumped out to a 14-0 lead with 6:56 left in the gam. Cougar Curtis Brown took over as the Cougars' all-time rushing leader and John Beck already has passed for 100 yards.

The Lobos went four-and-out on their first drive. The second one looks a little better and at the very worst will get the defense a little better field position to deal with off a decent punt.

Rodney Ferguson had a good run on the drive and Chris Nelson completed a pass across the middle to Matt Quillen for a first down. Then Nelson hit John Mulchrone to keep the drive going with a gain of 12 yards. Nelson hit Mulchrone for another 16.

Nelson went to Mulchrone again, but this time he was dropped for a loss of one at BYU 12-yard line. Ferguson carried on the next play for three yards. Then UNM was called for false start. It was five-yard penalty, bringing up third-and-12 at the 14. Nelson's pass intended for Mulchrone was incomplete on the play. The pass was pretty far behind Mulchrone in traffic.

A BYU player was hurt while deflecting the pass, stopping the clock for the Lobos at 3:05 left in the first quarter. Senior kicker Kenny Byrd stepped up and a 31-yard field goal. BYU now leads the Lobos 14-3 with 3:01 left in the game.

Well the Lobos were late arrivers like me, but they're showing signs of life.

Posted by ilimon at 02:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos were pretty happy, but there definitely was a heavy dose of relief mixed in the postgame celebration.

My Web story has been posted, and you can find it at this link.

I'm going to wrap up my women's basketball story for Saturday's Trib as soon as possible so I can take a nap before catching by way-too-early flight for Utah to catch the football team's game at BYU.

Posted by ilimon at 10:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Check out Lobo Zone soon for a complete postgame story.

Posted by ilimon at 08:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Texas went on another run, helped by some bad UNM fouls. Brandi Kimble fouled a shooter as she fired a 3-pointer, setting up a 3-point play from the free-throw line.

Coach Don Flanagan told his team to run its offense, move and block out to close out this game.

He warned them about Texas' drive and press, which is flashed for the first time a minute ago but UNM handled it well.

Posted by ilimon at 08:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Texas seems to be losing a lot of composure right now and UNM is running away with this game.

Amy Beggin hit a huge 3-pointer for the Lobos with 8:31 left. The shot combined with a tightly-called game from the Longhorns' perspective has blown this open for the Lobos.

Tonight's attendance is 10,085 very happy Lobo fans. Well, maybe a few of those are for Texas and not so happy, but mostly they're all Lobo.

Posted by ilimon at 08:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Texas mounted a little run, then Tiffany Jackson got frustrated and was called for a technical foul for intentionally elbowing Brandi Kimble or Dionne Marsh. It wasn't really blatant and was a pretty non-threatening elbow.

Obviously UNM still has the momentum here.

Posted by ilimon at 08:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Both teams went scoreless for two minutes, then the Lobos broke into the scoring column first. Texas hit a few buckets, but Brandi Kimble made up for sitting most of the first half to help UNM maintain a healthy lead.

Texas still looks very frustrated and the Lobos are making pretty good decisions, save a few defensive lapses.

Posted by ilimon at 08:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM is playing a thousand times better than it did in losses to Arizona State and Nebraska.

The Lobos are playing with a lot more confidence, playing better team defense, moving on offense and hitting their freethrows. Texas did not press during the first half but applied plenty of pressure in the halfcourt game switching on screens.

UNM led by as many as 16 points, Texas pulled within 10 with a scoring spurt, then the Lobos pushed it back up to 15 points late.

Julie Briody has had a monster game, with 16 points, seven rebounds and one turnover that was kind of questionable on a drive. She played all 20 minutes of the half.

Dionne Marsh also is playing well with 10 points and four rebounds, while Katie Montgomery has snapped out of the Nebraska-game cold streak for eight points.

The Lobos also managed to get Texas into quite a bit of foul trouble. The Longhorns have two players with three fouls, including two starters. Another two players have two fouls, including one starter.

UNM had a little foul trouble of its own, losing Brandi Kimble and Angela Hartill with two fouls apiece. The Lobos will get a big lift with Kimble back in the game because she can create her own shot and help open up the offense.

The thing about Texas is you still can't count the Longhorns out with a 15-point lead. UNM has to start the second half strong to pull off a win.

Posted by ilimon at 07:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos shooting touch has gone cold, letting Texas claw from 16 down to 10 down.

UNM is shooting 28.6 percent from the field and missing a few open looks.

It's still a much better performance than earlier this season.

Posted by ilimon at 07:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM pushed the lead to 16 points with 9:29 left in the game, earning a roar of approval from the crowd.

Then the Lobos slipped a little in terms of rebounding and looked a little tired. Tiffany Jackson scored twice while UNM couldn't answer to give Texas a little bit of the momentum back.

The UNM coaches were furious when Katie Montgomery was called for a foul when they thought she drew a charge right before the timeout.

The Lobos need a few buckets soon to help counter this mini Texas surge.

Posted by ilimon at 07:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos are now on a 16-2 run and 11-0 run, depending on how you want to score it.

The team has played great help-side defense and Texas has gone cold from the field. The most impressive defensive play was tiny Amy Beggin forcing Tiffany Jackson to travel as she tried to spin out of a double team.

Julie Briody is on fire and has 12 points to lead the Lobos.

Posted by ilimon at 07:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos hit their freethrows and played smart defense to go on a 9-0 run and force a Texas timeout.

Posted by ilimon at 07:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos are off to a much better start than they were against Arizona State and Nebraska. I have to think the home crowd is definitely helping. They are doing the little things like help defense and rebounding right.

Texas has six team fouls already, but the Lobos have Angela Hartill and Brandi Kimble sitting with two fouls apiece. That really hurts.

Posted by ilimon at 07:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The New Mexico-Texas women's basketball game just tipped off.

The Lobos used the same starting lineup they've gone with all season.

Texas went with Erika Arriaran, Erneisha Bailey, Earnesia Williams, Tiffany Jackson and Katrina Robinson.

Stay tuned for updates.

Posted by ilimon at 06:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

We're about 10 minutes away from game time at The Pit.

The Lobos are on the court warming up, while Texas just finished its early warmup and ran up the ramp. The crowd is still filing in, but it does look a little thin. I'm sure the people here will be loud to make up for any shortage. To be fair, the Lobos are competing with state high school football playoffs.

Stay tuned for more updates all game.

Posted by ilimon at 06:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Donovan Porterie will travel with the Lobos to BYU, but UNM head trainer Dave Binder said he really can't imagine Porterie being able to play. Porterie is making good progress, though, and should be in good shape for the Lobos' home finale against San Diego State.

UNM offensive coordinator Bob Toledo said he was a little frustrated by Thursday's practice. He said the team lacks depth and players get tired toward the end of workouts, which means they make more mistakes. "There were way too many dropped passes and fumbled snaps," Toledo said. "We just can't afford those kinds of lapses on game day." He said Nelson had a good command of the offense but still has a few things to work on very quickly. "The main thing he needs to do is get rid of the ball quickly," Toledo said. "I think he waits until the receiver is open to throw and that's too late. He understands he needs to correct it, and it's just a habit he has to break very soon." Toledo said he is optimistic Nelson and the rest of the offense will perform better on game day, "They seem pretty confident, and we've really got nothing to lose," he said.

On a lighter note, there was a very amusing moment with the defensive linemen Thursday. Defensive coordinator Osia Lewis asked for the players' wrist bands, which include a slot for a notecard with plays written inside. The guys looked like they were starving and Lewis just stole their lunch. The players scrambled to find pens so they could mark the wristbands and make sure they all got their lucky ones back. They're doing everything possible not to jinx themselves.

That's all for now. Check out Friday's Trib for more football news.

Posted by ilimon at 08:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Amanda Adamson has rejoined the University of New Mexico women's basketball team for practice this week. Adamson, a 6-foot sophomore guard from Littleton, Colo., transferred to UNM from Syracuse but was suspended from the team by UNM coach Don Flanagan for an undisclosed violation of team rules. Flanagan said Adamson suspension would be reviewed at the end of the fall semester, but she's back early. Flanagan said her return is being evaluated on a day-by-day basis. "It all depends on how she responds," he said.

Flanagan added Adamson's presence in practice gives the Lobos a boost in practice because she has college experience from her days at Syracuse and can challenge the UNM starters. Adamson cannot play in any games this season due to NCAA transfer rules.

In other basketball news, Friday marks the final game in the UNM-Texas series. Flanagan said he would like the series to continue, but Texas opted to end the contract. The copy of the contract I obtained shows Texas canceled the series that should have run two more years. Longhorns coach Jody Conradt said she wasn't aware the series is ending and added it had nothing to do with the Lobos' win at Texas last season. She left the door open to resuming the series, while Flanagan said the Lobos would seek comparable competition to replace the Longhorns on next year's schedule.

That's all for now. Check out Friday's Tribune for more women's basketball news.

Posted by ilimon at 07:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

It's a crazy day. Emmitt Smith just won Dancing with the Stars. Well, he always was light on his feet as a running back.

On to Lobo football news.

Donovan Porterie did not practice again Wednesday. UNM head trainer Dave Binder said Porterie is running at five miles per hour on a treadmill, which he said is very good. Binder said Porterie is in great shape to play in two weeks against San Diego State but remains a longshot against for Saturday's game at BYU.

The Lobos had a much better weather conditions for practice. The wind whipping around Tuesday made it really tough on the team. Today it was cool but not windy.

Video coordinator and former tight ends coach Jason Strauss is still working as the scout team quarterback. Strauss has a pretty strong arm and actually looks like he's doing a great job of challenging the UNM defense. The only problem is he doesn't run on any plays, so the defense isn't get much work on that aspect of their game plan. UNM coach Rocky Long said he is grateful Strauss could throw the ball pretty well because none of the other defensive coaches are accurate enough passers to lead the scout team. He said if Strauss were not around, he would be running the scout team. I'm kind of bummed now that I know he would have been back at quarterback. I would have paid to see that.

So Chris Nelson is the starter, Bryan Clampitt is the backup and Victor James has converted back from wide receiver to learn the plays as the third-string quarterback. Long said the Lobos are playing to win, so they won't be eliminating any run plays for Nelson. UNM senior offensive lineman Bo Greer said the line knows it just has to work hard to protect the quarterback.

There's still some pretty intense competiton going on at center for the Lobos.

The most amusing play of the day was Robert Turner laying a sick block on a chatty scout team player, allowing UNM to break off a huge gain down field. Turner will have a hard time duplicating the effort against a BYU's defense but it was a nice play toward the end of practice that really fired up the team.

I also talked with BYU quarterback John Beck today. A lot of UNM fans have speculated/hoped the Cougars overlook the Lobos. Beck said the senior-laden BYU team is not looking past New Mexico, especially since most of them spent their first few years on the team getting beat up by Mountain West Conference teams. They have not forgotten UNM has collected back-to-back wins at BYU. "I think our experience losing close games to teams people said were a lot better than us keeps us from getting overconfident," Beck said. "We know that any time we play a team in our conference, they're capable of beating us. We want to go out there and protect what we've worked so hard to accomplish." That could just be the standard line a senior captain should utter when asked that type of question, but the obstacles Beck and BYU have overcome make it pretty believable.

That's all for tonight. Check out Thursday's Trib for more Lobo football news.

Posted by ilimon at 07:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Donovan Porterie spent Tuesday's practice in the training room, and it seems doubtful he will start at BYU. If he makes it back in time for Thursday's practice, UNM coach Rocky Long said he will travel with the team and probably see playing time at BYU.

UNM head trainer Dave Binder said Porterie is working hard, but the injury is very painful and it would be unlikely Porterie could overcome it in time to play this week. Binder said always tries to be optimistic, so he's not ruling out a Porterie comeback. Binder said the good news is Porterie should be able to play in two weeks against San Diego State.

Meanwhile, the Lobos' latest starter Chris Nelson and new backup Bryan Clampitt battled through a challenging practice. The wind was really strong and made it really tough to complete passes. But they battled through it and installed the first round of their game plan for BYU.

Former tight ends coach and current video coordinator Jason Strauss filled in as the scout team quarterback, doing a pretty good job of dealing with the wind himself.

Senior wide receiver Thomas Wilson had no trouble during his second straight practice after suffering a concussion against TCU Saturday. Binder said Wilson has not suffered any negative effects since Saturday's concussion.

That's all I've got for today. Check out Wednesday's Trib for more Lobo football coverage.

Posted by ilimon at 08:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The latest word from UNM coach Rocky Long is redshirt freshman quarterback Donovan Porterie is doubtful for the Lobos' game at BYU Saturday. He said Porterie did not suffer a high-ankle sprain, the worst type of sprain, but he still hurt it pretty badly. The ankle was really swollen Sunday. Getting the swelling down is the first hurdle on the road to recovery. The longer that takes, the harder it is to bounce back.

If Porterie is not cleared to practice today, Long said Porterie will not start. If he can get better in time to practice Thursday, Porterie will be on the travel squad and probably see some action against BYU but will not start.

I'll have an update after practice with the latest on Porterie.

Posted by ilimon at 02:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

My New Mexico-Nebraska postgame story is posted on our Lobo Zone, and you can find it at this link.

I'm off to the airport. Both the Lobos and I are happy to be heading back to New Mexico.

Posted by ilimon at 06:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

The Lobos simply went cold for too long and ran out of time for a comeback.

UNM rallied after Nebraska went on a 14-5 run with a Katie Montgomery 3-pointer that cut the Huskers lead to five points with 55 seconds left. Then Nebraska hit freethrows it needed to ice the game.

Check out Lobo Zone soon for a postgame story with the Lobos' reaction to the game.

Posted by ilimon at 04:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Nebraska went on a 12-3 run, capitalizing on UNM's fatigue. The Lobos' main rotation is having trouble keeping up with Huskers, who have more depth and more scoring threats.

Posted by ilimon at 04:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM tied the game at 46 all, then Nebraska fought its way to a five-point lead. The Lobos are shooting poorly. It's still very much a game they can win, especially with hot-handed Julie Briody back in the game.

Posted by ilimon at 04:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM came out of the timeout and promptly turned it over. Timi E-Nunu travel on the inbound play. The whistle prompted the official timeout.

The Lobos really need to settle down. They can hit shots if they relax, but their tensing up too much. If they don't Nebraska can take this game out of their hands.

Posted by ilimon at 04:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM came out of the timeout and promptly turned it over. Timi E-Nunu travel on the inbound play. The whistle prompted the official timeout.

The Lobos really need to settle down. They can hit shots if they relax, but their tensing up too much. If they don't Nebraska can take this game out of their hands.

Posted by ilimon at 04:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Nebraska fouled UNM three times, but the Lobos could only get one point out of the exchange. The Huskers went on a 7-1 run to claim a four-point lead, prompting UNM coach Don Flanagan's timeout.

Posted by ilimon at 04:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM opened the second half much stronger on offense, but Nebraska hit two three pointers to hang onto a one-point lead.

The Lobos opened with an 8-6 run, including a five point start.

Katie Montgomery hit her first 3-pointer of the game at the 15:51 mark of the second half, but she missed her next open attempt.

UNM is playing good defense but Nebraska is hitting contested 3-pointers. We'll see how it shakes out the rest of the game.

Posted by ilimon at 03:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM had a chance to seize control of this game, but the Lobos went cold shooting. UNM is 12-of-28 from the field, 2-of-11 from 3-point range and 4-of-10 from the free-throw line. The Lobos last field goal of the half was at the 3:59 mark.

Katie Montgomery is struggling, going 0-for-7 from the field. It looks a little like the Lobos are rushing from the perimeter and a little too excited about finally getting open after seeing absolutely no daylight yesterday against Arizona State.

Nebraska's Kiera Hardy, a preseason all American, flashed her athletic ability and shooting range to help the Huskers earn the halftime lead. She scored eight in the last three minutes of the half.

The Lobos can beat Nebraska, but they need to keep up improved low-post defense, which picked up a lot in the second half. UNM also has to shut down, or least contain, Hardy in the second half.

Dionne Marsh has 12 points, three rebounds and two assists, while Julie Briody has seven points, three rebounds and one assist.

Hardy leads the Huskers with eight points, three rebounds and one assist, while forward Kelsey Griffin adds six points and three rebounds.

Nebraska is shooting 43 percent from the field, 30 percent from 3-point range and 67 percent from the free-throw line.

UNM has seven turnovers, while Nebraska has 12.

Stay tuned for the second half.

Posted by ilimon at 03:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Both teams are getting a little sloppy, forcing some shots and rushing others.

Valerie Kast is in the game, seeing her first significant playing time. She picked up a three-point play inside and is playing well. It's pretty clear she wants to make an impact. Kast got a round of applause from UNM fans after about four good minutes of play.

Nebraska is doing little things very well, which make it a pretty tough team. Their post players pin guards on screens, allowing their perimeter players to get open shots. The guards are quick enough to drive and get open looks, but they are unselfish enough to feed wide open post players.

Dionne Marsh leads the Lobos with 12 points, while Julie Briody is up to seven. I won't curse Briody by saying how many freethrows she has hit in a row because she's the only Lobo who is hitting them. This is the worst they've shot as a team in a long time.

Posted by ilimon at 03:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Both teams are getting a little sloppy, forcing some shots and rushing others.

Valerie Kast is in the game, seeing her first significant playing time. She picked up a three-point play inside and is playing well. It's pretty clear she wants to make an impact. Kast got a round of applause from UNM fans after about four good minutes of play.

Nebraska is doing little things very well, which make it a pretty tough team. Their post players pin guards on screens, allowing their perimeter players to get open shots. The guards are quick enough to drive and get open looks, but they are unselfish enough to feed wide open post players.

Dionne Marsh leads the Lobos with 12 points, while Julie Briody is up to seven. I won't curse Briody by saying how many freethrows she has hit in a row because she's the only Lobo who is hitting them. This is the worst they've shot as a team in a long time.

Posted by ilimon at 03:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Both teams are getting a little sloppy, forcing some shots and rushing others.

Valerie Kast is in the game, seeing her first significant playing time, but hasn't had a chance to do much yet.

Nebraska does little things very well, which make it a pretty tough team. Their post players pin guards on screens, allowing their perimeter players to get open shots. The guards are quick enough to drive and get open looks, but they are unselfish enough to feed wide open post players.

Posted by ilimon at 03:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Both teams are getting a little sloppy, forcing some shots and rushing others.

Valerie Kast is in the game, seeing her first significant playing time, but hasn't had a chance to do much yet.

Nebraska does little things very well, which make it a pretty tough team. Their post players pin guards on screens, allowing their perimeter players to get open shots. The guards are quick enough to drive and get open looks, but they are unselfish enough to feed wide open post players.

Posted by ilimon at 03:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Both teams are getting a little sloppy, forcing some shots and rushing others.

Valerie Kast is in the game, seeing her first significant playing time, but hasn't had a chance to do much yet.

Nebraska does little things very well, which make it a pretty tough team. Their post players pin guards on screens, allowing their perimeter players to get open shots. The guards are quick enough to drive and get open looks, but they are unselfish enough to feed wide open post players.

Posted by ilimon at 03:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Both teams are getting a little sloppy, forcing some shots and rushing others.

Valerie Kast is in the game, seeing her first significant playing time, but hasn't had a chance to do much yet.

Nebraska does little things very well, which make it a pretty tough team. Their post players pin guards on screens, allowing their perimeter players to get open shots. The guards are quick enough to drive and get open looks, but they are unselfish enough to feed wide open post players.

Posted by ilimon at 03:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

XX of Nebraska's points came from its forwards, a sign of how weak UNM's post defense and switches off screens underneath the basket have been so far this game.

UNM finally picked up the defensive pace around the 14-minute mark and got several stops. The Lobos have forced five Nebraska turnovers thanks to the more intense pressure.

Dionne Marsh has eight points, a huge improvement from the eight she managaed all game against Arizona State. Julie Briody also continues her strong play, racking up five points so far.

Posted by ilimon at 03:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Nebraska's Ashley Ford and UNM's Katie Montgomery hugged right before the jump ball as the players all shook hands.Both hail from Lincoln, Neb. The pleasantries ended there.

Dionne Marsh shook off yesterday's slump, finding a lot of daylight to score her first bucket in the low post at the 19:01 mark. She has four point so far this game.

Nebraska is pressing man-toman full court but it's nothing like the heat Arizona State can dish out. It isn't easy to get open, but at least the Lobos can catch the ball and have an opportunity to make something happen.

UNM's low-post defense is leaving a lot to be desired at this point. Nebraska is getting a bunch of layups and wide open looks inside. The Lobos are fortunate the Huskers are shooting 4-of-8 from the field.

Posted by ilimon at 02:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos are back in action this afternoon for their final game at the Arizona State Veterans Day Tipoff Class. Same starters as before. Stay tuned for more updates...

Posted by ilimon at 02:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It was a tough day for the UNM women's basketball team. I wrote a story with the Lobos' reaction to their 67-49 loss Arizona State, which you can find at this link.

Posted by ilimon at 05:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It was a tough day for the Lobos, who just couldn't quite keep up with Arizona State's quickness and relentless defense. UNM never quit, but the Lobos did struggle to stay out of foul trouble and set up their offense. It's OK to take the hit this early in the season as long as UNM learns from the mistakes.

Check out Lobo Zone for a postgame story, complete with UNM reaction to the tough loss.

Posted by ilimon at 01:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Dionne Marsh scored her first field goal with 6:57 left in the game. That pretty much tells the whole story, considering how integral she normally is to UNM's offense.

Timi E-Nunu has held up real well on defense, keeping up with the track meet and making the most plays of any of the Lobos.

Katie Montgomery is really hesitant to put up her shot but she is hustling. Unfortunately the Lobos need points more than just great passing.

So it's going to be a blowout, but UNM can use the last three minutes to prepare for Nebraska's speed and potent defensive pressure. And, oh, those pesky Longhorns on the horizon.

Posted by ilimon at 01:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Dionne Marsh is clearly frustrated, which is understandable considering how much she has struggled this game. I've never seen her have this off of a game. She is 0-for-5 from the field.

Arizona State keeps attacking the Lobos in waves and clearly has too many weapons with fresh legs.

Posted by ilimon at 01:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos are working so hard for shots that they are struggling to get back on scoring, giving ASU an advantage.

Timi E-Nunu continues to play great defense, but the Lobos aren't getting enough of a scoring punch. Players either hesitate to shoot or pull the trigger too anxiously.

They need to fight to keep this respectable and learn from the errors in time for Texas.

Posted by ilimon at 01:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Sun Devils continue to own control of the game, with Emily Westerberg lighting up Dionne Marsh by getting into better position. Right before the timeout, UNM coach Don Flanagan substituted Timi E-Nunu for Marsh, an acknowledgement that E-Nunu's defense is more valuable than the points Marsh can't seem to score in UNM's offensive set.

Posted by ilimon at 01:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

ASU pounced on the Lobos to start the second half, going on a 9-0 run.

Emily Westerberg, who had not scored in the first half, scored four points for the Sun Devils. The team clearly talked about working to its strengths.

At the same time, UNM's offense sputtered. The Lobos are struggling to get the ball in to Dionne Marsh and do much on offense.

Posted by ilimon at 01:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM turned the ball over 15 times, but the Lobos also forced 12 ASU turnovers. The difference is the Sun Devils were able to score more off those turnovers.

Briann January, arguably one of the fastest ASU players, leads all scorers with nine points. Julie Briody leads the Lobos with eight, while Brandi Kimble has seven. Dionne Marsh is 0-1 from the field but hit three freethrows.

Timi E-Nunu has four rebounds, two blocks and two steals in 16 minutes.

UNM is shooting 40 percent from the field but just 12.5 percent from 3-point range.

Posted by ilimon at 01:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos picked up a little steal late in the first half, forcing an Arizona State shot clock violationa and setting up the first functional version of their offense. Before it was just drives and jumpers.

Eileen Weissmann played really well, proving how little I know about her ability to hang in the low post.

Considering how rough of a start it was for the Lobos, they really adjusted pretty well to only be trailing 32-24 at the half. The Lobos didn't want to be in a hole or have both starting posts stuck with three fouls but UNM rallied and avoided a much worse deficit.

Amy Beggin adjusted to the pressure and helped the Lobos a lot, Julie Briody and Brandi Kimble created their shots and need to do more of it the second half, Eileen Weissmann stepped up in a big way in the low post, Katie Montgomery flashed an impressive series of crossover dribbles when UNM really needed it (think seven to set up a pass inside for a layup) and Timi E-Nunu plays great defense.

I'll grab some halftime stats and be back with a few more notes ...

Posted by ilimon at 12:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Timi E-Nunu is playing a great game for the Lobos, taking care of the ball. The Lobos had cut the ASU lead to five points, but turnovers are killing UNM. The Lobos have 14 turnovers so far.

Dionne Marsh and Angela Hartill also have three fouls apiece now. UNM coach Don Flanagan went with Eileen Weissmann, who can play post, instead of giving Valerie Kast a shot. Interesting decision. I know Kast would have trouble keeping up, but she's a big body ASU would have a real hard time defending. And I'm sure she could burn a few fouls if she's behind to give UNM some kind of a break. I guess we'll find out just how versatile and comparable Weissmann is to Abbie Letz, who could play spots 1-4 when needed.

Posted by ilimon at 12:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM is still struggling to set up its offense and deal with the Arizona State pressure.

The Lobos went on a 4-0 run, with Brandi Kimble and Julie Briody scoring off drives.

The refs are still calling the game tight on screens, so it's tough for the Lobos to get around ASU stiffling pressure defense. The Sun Devils also keep rotating huge waves of players, staying fresher than UNM

The Lobos will have to get mad and get tougher to overcome this deficit.

Posted by ilimon at 12:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

As soon as I said Amy Beggin was having trouble, she pulled off a great pass to set up a Briody layup. It was 14-9 ASU, then UNM made two quick turnovers and ASU scored layups. The Sun Devils are up 18-9. That's how quick ASU can pounce on errors.

Posted by ilimon at 12:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The officials are calling a lot of fouls on UNM's screens as the Lobos try to set up their offense. Dionne Marsh and Angela Hartill now both have two fouls, although coach Don Flanagan is leaving Marsh in the game. The upside is ASU post Aubree Johnson also has two fouls, but the Sun Devils have more depth.

Marsh has missed two freethrows, which is problematic considering UNM isn't getting more shots.

Amy Beggin has had a little trouble with the pressure, as have all the UNM guards, but I'm surprised Flanagan has left her in so long.

Posted by ilimon at 12:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos started off alright, but ASU applied a lot of pressure and UNM seems to have has tensed up shooting as a result.

The biggest blow for UNM so far is Angela Hartill already picked up two fouls and is on the bench.

Posted by ilimon at 12:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Lobos are using same starters as last game, as I would have expected for this matchup. The starters are Katie Montgomery, Dionne Marsh, Julie Briody, Brandi Kimble and Angela Hartill.

Arizona State has flashy introduction style, much like Texas. They dim the lights and cue colored light show and music for dramatic effect. The ASU starters are Emily Westerberg, Reagan Pariseau, Jill Noe, Aubree Johnson and Briann January.

Posted by ilimon at 11:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It's a little early for a basketball game, but both teams have springs in their steps during warmups. Senior forward Emily Westerberg said Friday she was grateful to facing the Lobos in Tempe instead of The Pit. UNM has still imported quite a few rowdy fans. ASU counters with its pep band and a few fans.

I'm excited to see how the Lobos perform in this game. I think it will say a lot about where they're at and what they're capable of doing this season. Or how far they need to go to achieve their goals.

About eight minutes til tipoff...

Posted by ilimon at 11:46 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I'm covering the women's basketball team at the Arizona State tournament, so Tribune sports ace Phil Parker will be providing all your live play-by-play analysis on his blog. You can get to his blog by visiting this link. He will start blogging around kickoff, which 3:30 p.m.

And, of course, the Linz will be offering his take following the game.

I'll be kicking back watching the action online via CSTV's pay per view site. You can buy the game by visiting the CSTV link on the upper right corner of golobos.com.

Posted by ilimon at 02:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Arizona State wore down Nebraska and turned what started as a relatively close game into a rout. Nebraska has a talented starting lineup and played pretty good defense most of the game, but the Huskers lack depth and missed a lot of shots inside.

ASU doesn't look unbeatable, but the team is very good and very well-coached. The Sundevils play great defense and help each other out so well. They close out passing lanes and make you work very, very hard to get a shot. They get a lot of points in transition, but they also move very well without the ball on offense to creat shots in the halfcourt game. I think they were the most productive off halfcourt inbound plays.

I'm going to go collect stats and see if I can track down the Arizona State coach to see what she thinks her needs to do against the Lobos. We'll see if she says anything interesting.

Posted by ilimon at 05:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

My New Mexico-Florida Atlantic game story has been posted on the Trib's Web site.

Now here's a quick look at the second game of the tournament, which has been a lot of fun to watch and seems closer than the halftime score indicates.

The Lobos take on Arizona State Sunday and Nebraska Monday in what will be considerably tougher tests than the one dished out by Florida Atlantic this afternoon. The Sundevils and Cornhuskersare faster, quicker and stronger than Florida Atlantic. Both teams were flying all over the court and applying impressive defense pressure, constantly getting into passing lanes. Nebraska is no slouch, but Arizona State obviously has more depth and is the more talented team.

Senior forward Emily Westerberg and guard Jill Noe lead Arizona State with eight points apiece, while Nebraska forward Kelsey Griffin is leading Nebraska with nine points.

Arizona State seems to be continuing the balanced attack it has used for years, with coach Charli Turner Thorne using her entire bench to maximize the defensive intensity her team can dish out. All 11 Arizona State players who appeared in the game have scored.

The Lobos left briefly after their game to grab something to eat, but they are in the stands watching the action. I think it's good for them to see at least a little bit of the game because it lets them know what to expect and they shouldn't be as surprised by the up-tempo style both Arizona State and Nebraska like to play.

Posted by ilimon at 05:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos coasted to an easy win in the first round of the Arizona State tournament. Check Lobo Zone soon for a complete postgame story.

Posted by ilimon at 03:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Valerie Kast and Christian Shelter came off the bench with 2:24 left in the game.

Florida Atlantic has hit a few more shots and UNM still looks a little sloppier. The Owls aren't pressing anymore, which is surprising considering the success they had forcing turnovers.

Posted by ilimon at 03:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos hit a few more buckets from long-range to give them a little second-half energy. Amy Beggin has seen by far the most time of all the freshmen, with Eileen Weissmann and Christian Shelter combining for less than five minutes on the floor.

Posted by ilimon at 03:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos got a little sloppy, giving up a lot of offensive rebounds and aren't hitting from the outside as well. UNM is still up 58-35, but we still haven't seen Georonika Jackson, Valerie Kast or Stephanie Baldwin play. They are in uniform on the bench, but as long as they don't play they're still redshirt candidates. Flanagan said he didn't plan on redshirting anyone, but maybe he changed his mind.

Posted by ilimon at 02:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Florida Atlantic is working hard and driving, but the Owls have put up all kinds of bricks. Off the glass, hard off the back of the rim and off both surfaces. Then there's those pesky airballs.

The Lobos do deserve a good amount of credit for forcing tough shots.

UNM's bigget problem has been some turnovers while being pressed. It's mostly mental errors at this point. It'd be nice to see more of the freshmen play to see how they look.

Posted by ilimon at 02:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Julie Briody is on tear, hitting seven of the Lobos nine second half points. UNM is up 50-25 with 15:49 left in the game. Dionne Marsh is back on the court, and the Lobos definitely are looking to get it inside to her as well. She has two points in the second half.

Posted by ilimon at 02:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Florida Atlantic went on a 9-3 run to close out the half, but UNM is still holds a commanding 41-23 lead.

The Owls used a press in the final minute and obviously rattled the Lobos. Amy Beggin got trapped twice, turning the ball over once and drawing a foul the other time. UNM practiced the press but it didn't handle it very well. It's a little troubling considering ASU probably will press most of the game, but Christian Shelter and Timi E-Nunu were the ones bringing in the ball -- not the most seasoned Lobos at handling the press inbound play.

UNM shot 43 percent from the field and 37.5 from 3-point range.
Florida Atlantic shot 24 percent from the field and 28.6 percent from 3-point range

The Lobos outrebounded the Owls 28-18, and a 9 to 7 offensive rebounding advantage.

Posted by ilimon at 02:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos are up 36-14 with 3:47 left.

Timi E-Nunu drove, scored and was fouled. She hit the freethrow. That's a pretty good effort from a player who rarely scores off anything but putbacks.

The UNM defense is strong, but Florida Atlantic appears to be an especially bad shooting team. The Owls have had some open looks, but they're shooting 4-of-25 from the field and 3-of-12 from 3-point range.

Posted by ilimon at 02:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Timi E-Nunu has stepped in and moved well on offense with Dionne Marsh out with two fouls. She also, naturally is playing pretty good defense. Florida Atlantic isn't more talented but the Owls will drive every chance they get.

UNM seems to have this under control, with the Lobos up 30-12 with 7:55 left..

Posted by ilimon at 01:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM has taken control of the game, claiming a 30-12 lead with 9:07 left in the half.

Angela Hartill is off to a good start and is much more aggressive this game than she was in the last exhibition game. After passing off open looks inside, she is shooting over much shorter opponents and making good post moves. Katie Montgomery also is off to a great start, scoring from the outside and driving to basket. Hartill and Montgomery both have eight points.

Amy Beggin is holding her own against Division I opposition, and picked up her first career steal but Florida Atlantic blocked her layup in transition.

Brandi Kimble hasn't gotten all her shots to fall but she is drawing fouls and making hustle plays you know coach Don Flanagan loves.

Posted by ilimon at 01:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos are moving the ball well on offense and getting some pretty good looks. It just took a few minutes for them to settle down, I guess.

Florida Atlantic is feeling the heat of the UNM defense and already has put two airballs from close range.

Posted by ilimon at 01:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Dionne Marsh picked up her second foul with 14:56 left in the half, which means she will be sitting the rest of the first half because UNM coach Don Flanagan never plays anyone with two fouls in the first half if he can avoid.

The Lobos got hot, taking advantage of their height advantage inside and strong perimeter shooting. UNM is 17-9 with 12:58. The lastest bucket was a Julie Briody 3-pointer, prompting the Owls to call timeout.

Posted by ilimon at 01:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

New Mexico has a 5-4 lead with 15:52 left in the first half. Florida Atlantic is really crashing the boards and pressuring the passing lanes. The Lobos were rattle at first, but Dionne Marsh scored inside and was fouled but missed the freethrow to give the team a little boost. Then the Lobos moved the ball really well on offense to set up a Katie Montgomery 3-pointer.

It's good that the team is getting good pressure from Florida Atlantic because the Lobos will face even tougher pressure from Arizona State.

Posted by ilimon at 01:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I'm all settled in here for the Lobos' season opener against Florida Atlantic at the Arizona State Veterans Day Tipoff Classic. I'll be updating the blog throughout all the tournament games.

There's a small but vocal crowd of UNM fans here to cheer the team on today. Former player and manager Tiffany Scaglione, who is now working in Phoenix, is here to cheer on the team.

The Lobos went with same starters as the exhibition game.

Florida Atlantic isn't tall, but during warmups the team looked pretty athletic and like pretty good shooters.

Stay tuned for more updates.

Posted by ilimon at 01:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I'm skipping the UNM-TCU football game and covering the UNM women's basketball team all weekend at the Arizona State tournament.

I'll be doing tons of blog updates from the tournament, including updates during the game. I'll also be writing stories that will posted in Lobo Zone and the front page of the Trib Web site..

If you've got questions or are curious about anything, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section. I'll do my best to answer all your questions.

You can check out the audio section of Lobo Zone Friday morning to hear a podcast Richard Stevens and I did previewing the season.

And we've got an interesting poll on Web site, which is part of our weekly Behind the Bleachers section. Which Lobo will score more points this season? Dionne Marsh or J.R. Giddens. Visit this link to cast your vote.

Posted by ilimon at 09:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos have a clean bill of health and should be all set for TCU Saturday afternoon. The team has looked a little sluggish at times this week on practice, but I think it's natural for the guys to get a little antsy after having so much time between games. UNM coach Rocky Long gave his weekly pep talk after Thursday's practice, a tradition that started the Thursday before UNM played UNLV. Long is superstitious and doesn't mess with someting so simple when it's working. He says a few remarks with the team, then he leaves the players to lead some chants and they run off the field pretty fired up.

TCU is bringing its band for Saturday's game, hoping to counter what should be a pretty big UNM crowd.

I'm sure the Lobos would like to honor another superstition and take over the west sideline instead of the east sideline (the pressbox side of University Stadium), the way they did against Utah. The student section heckled the Wyoming coaches during the previous home game, so UNM made the change to make things run smoothly. The Lobos won and it seems natural they would do it again for the good vibes. This is sports after all, where so many of believe sitting in the right spot while watching a game on TV totally can change the outcome of the game. In this case, if players believe in the power of the superstitions, then they pretty much are true. The only glitch with changing sidelines is that UNM needs clearance from the Mountain West Conference and TCU before moving the Frogs away from their fans and band. So we'll see what happens on game day.

Just a reminder, Friday is the last day to order the UNM-TCU game from CSTV's pay-per-view site at the $14,95 price. The fee jumps to $19.95 on Saturday. The game will be broadcast on the Mountain, but the channel is only available in New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, Wyoming and Idaho.

I'm a little bummed because I'm going to miss the TCU game, the first UNM football game I won't be at this season. I'm covering the women's basketball team at a tournament in Arizona, while Richard Stevens and Phil Parker, who normally does editing on our sports desk, will cover the football game. Parker will be blogging during the game and write a post-game story, while Stevens will be Stevens. The Linz will offer his "insight" and we'll pretty much have it all covered. I'll record the game at home and watch it online Saturday in Arizona. And then it'll be back to regular coverage next week.

That's all for tonight. Check out Friday's Tribune for our big Lobo Zone special section and preview of the TCU game.

Posted by ilimon at 08:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM women's basketball coach Don Flanagan said he still has a few questions about some of his freshmen, but he doesn't think he will redshirt any of them.

"I can't use them in the tournament, and I just can't tell right now which ones might be able to help us down the road," he said. "I think I'm going to go ahead and use them all."

The Lobos have five freshmen who could potentially redshirt, with freshman Stephanie Balwin already using her redshirt season when she decided not to play basketball last year. Point guard Amy Beggin logged a lot of minutes in exhibition games and obviously will play a lot this year. Guards Eileen Weissmann and Christian Shelter averaged 11 and 10 minutes in the exhibitions. I think UNM needs Valerie Kast as a backup center, although it would be nice for her to have a year to develop. I would guess the strongest redshirt is Georonika Jackson, but it's tough to say where the Lobos' greatest needs are at this point.

Posted by ilimon at 10:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos are looking storng this week. The only problem that has popped up is Thomas Wilson is getting over the flu, but he is practicing and plans to play Saturday against TCU.

UNM had a pretty steady workout. My guess is that the key to UNM's success will be how strong the offensive line and other blockers, including the fullback, running back and receivers, protect Donovan Porterie. TCU has not one, but two monster defensive ends who are going to be putting a lot of heat on the UNM offense. You can't go forward if you can't get the ball out of the backfield. Chase Ortiz will be bearing down on Porterie, but I would be more concerned with Tommy Blake going after Porterie from the left side where he can't see the guy coming. That makes Anthony Kilby, in my opinion, a big key to UNM's success.

Defensive end Kevin Balogun is moving around this week without a walking cast for the first time since he was sidelined with a torn achilles tendon. It's a really tough injury to overcome, so this is a major sign of progress for Balogun.He has been at every practice this season despite the injury and seems to be handling things pretty well.

That's all for now. Check back for more updates tomorrow.

Posted by ilimon at 08:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos had an open practice today and talked about the big season-opening tournament at Arizona State.

They will take on Florida Atlantic, No. 12/13 Arizona State and Nebraska.

I talked with Brandi Kimble and Julie Briody about the practices this week. They said UNM coach Don Flanagan did work the team hard after its sluggish performance in their exhibition game Sunday, but the emphasis really was on improving fundamentals.

The coaching staff also received four letters of intent today from recruits and were awaiting clearance on the final letter from Amanda Best, who signed late in the day in Washington, preventing the coaches from talking about her. I had a story in today's Tribune with info on all the recruits. When I asked Flanagan what it would be like working with back-to-back five-member recruiting classes, he said he was grateful his son is now on the staff to help him out. He said some freshmen adapt quickly while others need help getting adjusted to his expectations.

Check out Thursday's Tribune for more women's basketball news.

Posted by ilimon at 07:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The University of New Mexico women's basketball team snagged a national higher ranking, earning the No. 18 spot in the Associated Press preseason Top 25 poll released Wednesday. The Lobos already were ranked No. 20 in the ESPN/USA Today coaches poll. It marks the first time in school history UNM has been ranked in AP preseason poll.

Fellow Mountain West Conference team BYU is ranked No. 24 in the poll. Several of UNM's nonconference opponents also are ranked, including No. 3 Oklahoma, No. 13 Arizona State, No. 23 UCLA and No. 25 Texas.

Here's the complete version of the poll:

1. Maryland
2. North Carolina
3. Oklahoma
4. Stanford
5. Tennessee
6. Duke
7. Ohio State
8. Connecticut
9. Georgia
10. LSU
11. Purdue
12. Rutgers
13. Arizona State
14. Texas A&M
15. Kentucky
16. Vanderbilt
17. Michigan State
18. LOBOS
19. Baylor
20. DePaul
21. Cal
22. USC
23. UCLA
24. BYU
25. Texas

Posted by ilimon at 12:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

A quick clarification for fans planning to check out the New Mexico-TCU game or Notre Dame-Air Force football games Saturday live online via CSTV's pay-per-view Web site. It costs $14.95 to watch the game if you buy it in advance, but the price jumps to $19.95 on game day. So in this case, the early bird gets the discount.

Posted by ilimon at 12:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM football coach Rocky Long said during today's media luncheon that senior quarterback Kole McKamey is appealing to the NCAA for a medical redshirt and sixth year of eligibility. I posted a story about McKamey's decision on the Trib's Web site.

Posted by ilimon at 02:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

After the Utah women's basketball team came within one freethrow of the Final Four against Maryland, the eventual national champions, the Mountain West Conference earned a lot more national respect. With the Utes losing stars Shona Thorburn and Kim Smith, a lot of analysts are looking at New Mexico to next team from a non-power conference to make a big splash. Looks like it was a good thing UNM fans cheered for the Utes in The Pit after all.

ESPN.com continues its women's basketball season preview this week with 20 questions about women's basketball and the Lobos are featured in three answers.

Under question four -- Who's the second-best team out west behind Stanford? -- Mechelle Voepel wrote, "I'm inclined to say New Mexico, which is picked to win the Mountain West."

Under question 13 -- Utah reached the '06 Elite Eight. Who will break through this season? -- Beth Mowins showed more love for the Lobos. She wrote, "I'll stay in the Mountain West and go with New Mexico. The Lobos always will be staunch defenders and hard workers. This year they should have some scorers, as well. MWC preseason player of the year Dionne Marsh and long distance sharpshooter Katie Montgomery give New Mexico a good combo."

And under question 17 -- Who is the nation's top outside shooter? -- the Lobos pop up again. Nancy Lieberman wrote, "Three players come to mind, starting with Ivory Latta. The North Carolina senior point guard knocked down 85 treys last season, hitting 40.1 percent of her attempts and 2.4 3-pointers per game. She's lightning quick and able to create her own shot as well as anyone. Other standouts from beyond the arc include New Mexico 5-11 senior Katie Montgomery, who shot 45.4 percent on 3-pointers (104-of-229) last season, hitting 2.3 per game. Lastly, Ohio State's Marscilla Packer shot 46.2 percent (79-of-171). The 5-9 junior sank 2.5 3-pointers per game."

I've never seen the Lobos get this much preseason chatter. We'll see how they handle life in an even bigger spotlight.

Posted by ilimon at 10:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

I'm back.

I took the three practices during the bye week off to rest up for a grueling stretch of football and women's basketball coverage, with lots of overlap that will test my organizational skills.

The Lobos had a full lineup at practice Monday, with the exception of wide receiver Thomas Wilson. He missed the workout because he was sick. Backup middle linebacker Brett Madsen, who suffered a high ankle sprain against Colorado State, practiced but UNM coach Rocky Long said he still looked like he was limping. UNM trainers still expect Madsen to play Saturday against TCU.

Long said he thought the bye week workouts went well and the Lobos addressed a lot of the problems with fundamentals that had been bothering him all season. He also was grateful to have the starting offense and defense scrimmage against each other and hit hard without anyone getting hurt.

The Lobos had another three-day weekend before resuming practice again Monday night. Long called the workout a little sloppy, but he said it was to be expected considering UNM hasn't played a game in nine days.

That's all for now. Check out Tuesday's Tribune for more Lobo football coverage.

Posted by ilimon at 09:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It's women's college basketball preview week on ESPN.com, with several rankings and breakdowns of conferences being posted throughout the week. The Web site's analysts Nancy Lieberman, Beth Mowins, Mechelle Voepel and Graham Hays released their Top 25 poll Sunday.

New Mexico was ranked No. 18, with the following commentary: "The slipper fit Utah last March. Our money's on New Mexico now."

BYU was ranked No. 25, with the following commentary: " Cougars just missed being named Mountain West favorite. But they're just good enough to edge Virginia and Texas for our final spot."

And here's how other UNM nonconference opponents were ranked:
No. 3 Oklahoma with the comment, "Common mistake: thinking the Sooners start and stop with Courtney Paris. They have a lot more to offer."

No. 13 Arizona State with the comment, "Tell us again why Emily Westerberg seems to only get national attention in the NCAA Tournament?"

No love for UCLA, TCU or Utah.

What do you think of their commentary. A lot of readers were irked when Nancy Lieberman's preseason picks didn't include the Lobos. Is this better?

Posted by ilimon at 05:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I cast a vote in the Harris poll, one of three factors used to determine Bowl Championship Series standings. The standings are used to award spots in the BCS bowl games and name a national champion. Here are my picks this week:

1. Ohio State
2. Michigan
3. Louisville
4. Texas
5. Auburn
6. Florida
7. USC
8. Notre Dame
9. Boise State
10. Rutgers
11. Cal
12. LSU
13. Arkansas
14. West Virginia
15. Tennessee
16. Oklahoma
17. Wisconsin
18. Georgia Tech
19. Wake Forest
20. Oregon
21. Virginia Tech
22. BYU
23. Maryland
24. Clemson
25. Boston College

I'm surprised BYU hasn't crack into the Harris poll rankings yet. I definitely think the Cougars belong in the poll. I bumped up the unbeaten teams this week because I think we've gotten to the point in the season where their undefeated marks get more impressive.

The main things UNM fans should keep an eye on is how Boise State fares in the BCS standings. If the Broncos slip into a BCS game, it changes the WAC's team that could face UNM in the New Mexico Bowl. If Boise State goes to a BCS game, then the Lobos would likely face Nevada. If the Broncos don't earn a BCS bowl berth, then the Lobos would likely face san Jose State.

Feel free to share your thoughts on my picks in the comments section of the blog.

Posted by ilimon at 05:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

The final score was pretty, but the road to a win was anything but for the University of New Mexico women's basketball team.
The Lobos collected a 68-34 win over Division II University of Colorado-Colorado Springs Sunday afternoon in The Pit, but it was far from a good tuneup to end their exhibition season.
UNM coach Don Flanagan appeared to be in pain on the sidelines as his team struggled to play a fundamentally sound game.
The Lobos continued to have problems rebounding, only picking nine offensive rebounds while allowing Colorado Springs's much shorter lineup to grab 14 offensive boards.
Flanagan also was irked the Lobos' forced two-on-one drives rather than running their offense and failed to get the ball into the low post when they had a huge height and talent advantage inside. UNM starting posts Dionne Marsh and Angela Hartill only attempted 12 shots.
"I wasn't happy with the way we played," Flanagan said. "... These things are for the purpose of improving and we've got a long way to go."
The miscues didn't matter much, but the same errors next weekend against teams at the Arizona State tournament would be costly.
"We need to play better as a team, especially next week because we're going to be playing better competition," senior guard Katie Montgomery said.
Montgomery led the Lobos with 18 points, including four 3-pointers. Marsh added 14 points, while guard Julie Briody chipped in 12 points.
Freshman point guard Amy Beggin finished with a team-high seven assists, and earned the most minutes among the Lobos with 30.
Flanagan praised Montgomery and Beggin for their strong play. He said UNM did a lot of things well, including shooting 67 percent from the field in the second half, but he still sees a lot of room for improvement.
Freshmen Valerie Kast and Georonika Jackson sat out the game after undisclosed violations of team rules, serving the punishment Flanagan announced Friday. Kast and Jackson both sat on the bench in street clothes and took statistics during the game.

Posted by ilimon at 04:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I'm still taking my bye week, but I do have a few football news items to add to my blog.

The Mountain has been added to two more cable providers -- Saratoga Cable in Utah and Project Mutual Telephone in Idaho. The Mountain already is available via those cable providers. The Mountain, which is devoted to covering Mountain West Conference athletics and will broadcast the most University of New Mexico athletics events this season, is now available in New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, Wyoming and Idaho. It is available via 136 cable systems and 15 service providers. The Mountain is still trying to find a home on national satellite providers.

Senior kicker Kenny Byrd is one of 20 semifinalists for the Lou Groza Award for the second year in a row. Byrd has hit two game-winning field goals this season and has hit 22 consecutive field goals from inside the 40-yard line. His longest field goal this season was from 52 yards.

Byrd is the only Mountain West Conference player on the list, but former Lobo opponents Jeff Wolfert of Missouri and Reagan Schneider of UTEP are fellow semifinalists. Byrd will have a tough run trying to win the award this year. Last year's winner, Alexis Serna of Oregon State, and last year's runner up, Mason Crosby of Colorado, are on the semifinalist list. Serna's longest field goal was from 58 yards this year, while Crosby's season longest field goal was from 56 yards.

The Mountain West Conference took a hit this week, grabbing two spots on ESPN.com's Bottom 10, ranking the 10 worst teams in the country. UNLV took the No. 10 spot with a 1-7 record, while San Diego State took the No. 9 spot with a 1-6 record. The Aztecs have fewer losses, but ESPN frowned on their loss to Division I-AA Cal-Poly last week.

Posted by ilimon at 12:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The first USA Today/ESPN coaches poll was released today and the University of New Mexico women's basketball team was ranked No. 20. BYU was the only other Mountain West Conference team ranked at No. 24.

I probably would have ranked New Mexico No. 17, but No. 20 isn't bad,

UNM will face No. 12 Arizona State, No. 3 Oklahoma and No. 23 UCLA in nonconference play this season. For the first time I can recall, Texas isn't on the list but it's safe to say the Longhorns will pack a Top 25 caliber punch when they visit UNM for the home season opener.

Here's the poll:

1. Maryland
2. North Carolina
3. Oklahoma
4. Stanford
5. Tennessee
6. Duke
7. Ohio State
8. Connecticut
9. Georgia
10. LSU
11. Rutgers
12. Arizona State
13. Purdue
14. Texas A&M
15. Vanderbilt
16. Kentucky
17. Michigan State
18. Baylor
19. DePaul
20. LOBOS
21. Cal
22. USC
23. UCLA
24. BYU
25. Washington

Posted by ilimon at 02:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)